Traders, Keke Driver Cheat Death As Trailer Falls In Abia

A tragic accident that could have claimed the lives of many traders was averted on Tuesday at the Timber Industrial Market in Umuahia when a trailer loaded with timber overturned and crushed a tricycle while attempting to enter the market.

The incident resulted in the destruction of tricycles and other properties, though no lives were lost, according to eyewitnesses.

One of the tricycle operators reportedly jumped out of the tricycle just moments before the impact, escaping what could have been a fatal crash.

Affected traders, including Mrs. Helen Onwuegbu and Oluchi Asoha, expressed gratitude for their survival despite significant losses.

Speaking to newsmen at the scene, they attributed the accident to the poor road network in the market, exacerbated by incessant flooding.

The President of Umuahia Timber Industrial Market, Sir Luke Anozie Ufomadu, also thanked God for the absence of casualties. He seized the opportunity to call on the Abia State Government to address the persistent erosion and flooding that have severely impacted access to the market’s entrances and roads, particularly for heavy-duty vehicles.

“The problem is making it difficult for vehicles, especially heavy-duty ones, to operate seamlessly,” Ufomadu stated.

Ufomadu who commended Governor Alex Otti for his infrastructural development efforts across the state also urged him to extend these improvements to the Timber Industrial Market.

Similarly, Mr. Onyemechi Ndu, Chairman of the Building Material Section, expressed optimism that the governor would address the market’s dilapidated road network and damaged drainage system, which pose ongoing risks to operations.