Imo State was struck by dual tragedies on Tuesday, with a devastating road accident and a deadly market explosion that left a total of 22 people dead and many others injured.
The first incident occurred at the Njaba Bridge in Njaba Local Government Area, where an 18-seater bus collided with a Toyota Corolla. Eyewitnesses described a horrifying scene, with both vehicles mangled beyond recognition. “We heard a loud crash and rushed over, only to see the bus and Corolla destroyed, with no survivors,” said a witness at the site. The collision claimed all 20 lives aboard both vehicles, sparking sorrow and concern across the community.
Later that same day, another tragedy struck at Orlu International Market when an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated, killing two people and injuring numerous others. Witnesses reported widespread panic and a stampede as marketgoers scrambled for safety. “The explosion triggered chaos; people were running everywhere, and several were injured in the stampede,” recounted a witness at the scene.
Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, confirmed the explosion, stating that the incident was caused by an IED that two individuals attempted to plant before it detonated prematurely. “Our initial findings indicate that the two deceased were the perpetrators who were attempting to set up the explosive device,” Okoye said. He added that the Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, has since dispatched Anti-Bomb operatives to secure the scene and prevent further threats.
The police have assured residents that there is no immediate danger, but urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. “We encourage all Imo residents to stay alert and help us ensure the safety of our communities by reporting anything unusual in their areas,” Okoye advised.
These tragic events have cast a pall over Imo State, with residents mourning the victims and calling for strengthened security and road safety measures to prevent future incidents.
