A tragic accident on the Onitsha–Owerri Road in Anambra State claimed three lives on Thursday morning when a container-laden truck overturned near Mgbemena Junction, crushing a tricycle and trapping several passengers. Among the victims was a former filling station manager who had recently turned to commercial tricycle operation.
The crash, which occurred around 7:30 a.m., sparked outrage among residents and tricycle operators, who blocked the road, set bonfires, and accused the government of neglecting the badly damaged highway. Eyewitnesses said the truck lost balance while navigating a deplorable section of the road, causing the container to fall.
Rescue operations were delayed as crowds protested the poor state of infrastructure, which locals claim they have repeatedly reported to authorities through radio programmes without any response. Officials from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and police later arrived at the scene to begin recovery efforts, while fears remain that more victims may be trapped beneath the wreckage.
The incident has reignited anger over the government’s failure to repair the Onitsha–Owerri Road, a vital commercial route long known for its dangerous condition.
