Abia State has been plunged into deep mourning following a tragic road accident that claimed the lives of 15 traders from Umuahia who were returning from a traditional wedding ceremony in Enugu State.
The victims, all residents of Umuahia, the Abia State capital, had travelled to Enugu to attend the wedding before the fatal crash occurred on their journey back home. The accident happened outside Abia State's jurisdiction, which limited the state's ability to provide immediate emergency response.
Governor Alex Otti expressed profound grief over the incident, describing the loss as “painful, devastating, and heartbreaking” for the entire state and its people. In a special government announcement issued through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ferdinand Ekeoma, on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, the governor lamented the scale of the tragedy.
“This is a deeply painful moment for us as a government and as a people. Fifteen precious lives lost in a single accident is a devastating blow. Our hearts go out to the families, friends, and loved ones of the deceased,” the statement read.
Upon receiving verified reports of the crash, Governor Otti immediately directed the Honourable Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection to urgently contact the families of the deceased and the survivors. The directive is intended to ensure that affected families receive prompt and compassionate support from the state government during this period of immense grief and financial hardship.
The governor stressed that no family should be left to bear the burden of such a loss alone. “The government of Abia State stands with you in this moment of sorrow and will provide the necessary assistance to ease the pain and hardship,” he assured.
Beyond offering condolences, Governor Otti used the occasion to renew calls for strict adherence to road safety regulations across Nigeria. He urged motorists to avoid over-speeding, reckless driving, driving against traffic, and other dangerous practices that frequently contribute to fatal crashes.
“Many of the fatal accidents we record across the country are preventable. Let us all prioritize safety over haste and take responsibility for our actions on the road,” the governor appealed.
On behalf of the government and people of Abia State, Governor Otti extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families, friends, and communities affected by the tragedy. He prayed for the peaceful repose of the souls of the departed and strength for those left behind to bear the irreparable loss.
The incident is the latest in a series of road crashes that continue to claim lives on Nigerian highways, often attributed to poor road conditions, overloading of vehicles, reckless driving, and inadequate enforcement of traffic laws. It serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for collective responsibility, improved road infrastructure, stricter enforcement, and greater public awareness of road safety.
As Abia State grieves the loss of these 15 traders—many of whom were breadwinners and active members of their communities—residents and leaders alike have called for renewed efforts to make Nigerian roads safer for all users.
The state government has not yet released the identities of the victims or further details about the exact location and circumstances of the crash, pending official confirmation from relevant authorities.
