Metro
Gigantic ancestral tree falls, crushes 18 travellers to death in Enugu
Tragedy struck the Awhum community on Tuesday as a massive ancestral tree, locally known as “Ukwu Akpu Awhum”, fell onto a commercial bus, killing at least 18 passengers.
Very Nigerian gathered that the incident occurred during heavy rainfall and thunderstorms, while the fully loaded 18-seater minibus was traveling from Ukehe in Igbo-Etiti LGA to Enugu metropolis. The giant tree suddenly collapsed, crushing the vehicle and its occupants, who reportedly died on impact.
Residents rushed to the scene but were unable to save anyone. Charly Okeke, a member of the community, described the shock and grief sweeping through Awhum. He noted that although branches from the ancient tree had fallen in previous years, nothing of this magnitude had occurred before.
“Some people started tying red and white cloths around the trunk, seeking spiritual powers,” Okeke said, suggesting that such acts of desecration may have weakened the tree. “I suspect this may have caused the tragedy.”
The Awhum community has been thrown into mourning as families and neighbors struggle with the devastating loss. Many residents are now calling for greater caution around sacred and ancestral sites, particularly amid the torrential rains affecting parts of Enugu State.
State emergency agencies and local authorities are expected to visit the scene to assess safety conditions and provide support to the bereaved families. As of filing this report, Enugu State officials have yet to release an official statement.
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