The Abia State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the fatal road accident that claimed the lives of fourteen Abians over the weekend, pledging solidarity with the bereaved families and continued support to survivors.
In a statement signed by the Honourable Commissioner for the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Blessing Felix, the government described the incident as a painful loss to the state and extended heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the victims.
According to the statement, the tragic accident occurred on Saturday, February 14, 2026, along the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, near the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu.
Preliminary reports indicate that the victims were travelling from Enugu when the vehicle conveying them collided with a trailer.
Many of those affected were traders operating around the Isi Gate and Bonny Street axis of Umuahia who were returning from a traditional marriage ceremony. Eleven persons reportedly died at the scene of the accident, while three others later succumbed to injuries sustained.
Survivors were rushed to nearby medical facilities for urgent treatment, including the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia.
The statement noted that the incident has plunged families and the wider Abia community into deep mourning.
In response, His Excellency, Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, Governor of Abia State, has directed the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection to immediately engage with the bereaved families and injured survivors. The engagement is to assess their needs and coordinate appropriate support measures, including medical assistance and compassionate relief interventions.
The Abia State Government also reiterated its commitment to promoting road safety awareness and collaborating with relevant authorities to reduce the occurrence of such tragic incidents in the future.
Mrs. Felix prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed and asked God to grant their families the strength and comfort to bear the irreparable loss.
For further information, contact:
Social Protection Department
Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection
Umuahia, Abia State
Email: info_mpasp@abiastate.gov.ng
Phone: +234 803 566
