Five persons have tragically died after a mini bus they were traveling in from Igoli to Abakpa plunged into a river in Ogoja. Reports indicate that the driver was the only survivor of the accident.

Eyewitnesses attributed the incident to poor infrastructure. Idah Roland, a resident, said:

“It’s unfortunate. Abakpa River bridge doesn’t have a protector or iron railings, practically there is nothing to protect or prevent such accidents from taking place. Something needs to be done urgently.”

The bridge and adjoining roads are narrow and currently under renovation by the Cross River State government, leading to traffic congestion, particularly due to a high number of motorcycles navigating the limited space. Similar accidents have reportedly occurred in the past, especially when vehicles maneuver over the bumpy sections of the road.

Attempts to reach officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps, who have an office nearby, were unsuccessful as they were reportedly out on patrol at the time of the incident.

Residents are calling for urgent safety improvements, including proper guardrails, to prevent further tragedies along the stretch.