OWERRI — Tragedy struck in the late hours of Sunday, June 22, 2025, as at least nine persons were feared dead in a fatal auto crash along the ever-busy Owerri–Okigwe Expressway in Imo State. The accident reportedly occurred during a heavy downpour, raising concerns over road safety and driver negligence in harsh weather conditions.
Eyewitnesses said the crash involved an articulated vehicle that lost control while navigating the slippery road near Umunachi. The vehicle, which was reportedly moving at high speed, veered off course and collided with multiple other vehicles. The impact was described as “devastating,” leaving several passengers trapped and others lifeless at the scene.
“I counted at least nine bodies on the ground before emergency services arrived,” said one resident, who lives close to the accident spot. “It was raining heavily, but some of these drivers refused to slow down. Now lives have been wasted.”
First responders, including local security operatives and community volunteers, arrived at the scene to assist in rescue efforts. Several injured victims were rushed to nearby hospitals, while the remains of the deceased were evacuated by emergency services.
As of the time of filing this report, the Imo State Police Command had not issued an official casualty figure, but unconfirmed reports from those at the scene indicate that the death toll may rise due to the severity of injuries sustained by some of the victims.
This latest incident has sparked fresh outrage among residents and road users, many of whom are calling on authorities to intensify road safety enforcement, particularly during extreme weather. They also urged drivers to exercise caution during rainfall to prevent avoidable accidents.
The Owerri–Okigwe road has been the subject of multiple safety concerns in recent times. Just over a month ago, the same axis witnessed a violent incident where armed men attacked motorists, setting vehicles ablaze in an alleged enforcement of the sit-at-home order.
As investigations into Sunday’s crash continue, concerned citizens are appealing to the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and the Imo State Government to strengthen highway patrols and ensure the installation of proper road signs and speed control measures, especially on high-risk routes.
