A tragic multiple-fatality road accident at the ever-busy Udu Bridge has thrown the entire Udu community into mourning and gridlock, sparking urgent calls for road safety reform from the local government chairman, Hon. Vincent Oyibode.
The carnage unfolded on Monday, July 14, 2025, when a Julius Berger truck, reportedly attempting to overtake a commercial tricycle (Keke), struck a stationary trailer under which a mechanic was working.
The trailer, destabilized by the impact, toppled and crushed three oncoming tricycles, resulting in an unconfirmed number of deaths and multiple injuries.
“This tragedy was entirely avoidable,” Chairman Oyibode declared during an emergency visit to the scene. “Life is precious.
“No excuse justifies this level of recklessness. We must take decisive action to hold drivers accountable and prevent another black Monday on our roads.”
The catastrophic crash caused a complete lockdown of the Udu Bridge, stranding thousands of commuters, students, traders, workers, for hours.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and despair, with many forced to abandon vehicles and trek miles under the scorching sun.
Emergency responders battled to reach the scene amid the paralyzed traffic.
The chairman coordinated immediate response efforts, including the recovery of the deceased mechanic’s body, the towing of wreckage, and the deployment of security and traffic management personnel.
Officers from the Nigeria Police, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and divisional commands at Ovwian/Aladja and Enerhen were on ground to restore order.
A survivor, a visibly shaken tricycle operator, recounted the terrifying moment the trailer collapsed. “I don’t know how I made it out. Everything happened in seconds,” he said, still trembling.
Oyibode extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and promised the Council would explore every avenue to strengthen enforcement of traffic laws, especially for heavy-duty vehicle operators notorious for endangering lives along the Udu corridor.
“This must be a turning point,” he insisted. “The Udu Local Government will not fold its arms. We are committed to ensuring that our roads are safe for all.”
As investigations continue and the death toll awaits confirmation, Udu has witnessed one of its darkest days, and residents are demanding action, not just words.
Credit: Paullet Aforhon, Ministry of Information bulletin
