Tragedy Strikes As Reckless Driver Crushes Family Of Five To Death In Imo State

In a heart-wrenching incident that has left a community in shock, a reckless driver driving against traffic has caused a devastating accident resulting in the loss of lives. The tragic event occurred in Umudibia community, maternity junction, close to the Federal Polytechnic Nekede in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. The incident took place on Sunday, August 5, 2023, leaving a family of five and their house help dead.

The family head, identified as Arthur, known by the alias Agwu Oti Aka, was not just an ordinary man - he was a disabled Para-Badminton Silver Medalist. His remarkable achievements were slated to take him to the United States to represent Nigeria in a Disabled Badminton competition on August 14, 2023. However, destiny took an unimaginable turn.

The ill-fated day saw Arthur riding a motorcycle with some of his children, while his wife, house help, and other children were on two other motorcycles. In a horrifying instant, a reckless driver, believed to be intoxicated, veered off his lane and collided head-on with the family, leading to the instant death of Arthur, his wife, and their 14-month-old child. Tragically, Arthur's house help and two sons succumbed to their injuries later in an Owerri hospital.

A devastated neighbor of the deceased family, Prince Mekoyor, recounted the harrowing incident. He explained that the reckless driver, who wasn't the owner of the vehicle - an RX 3:30 Lexus SUV - had borrowed it to facilitate a money withdrawal for purchasing drinks. The driver's reckless speed led to a loss of control at Maternity Junction Polynek, resulting in the fatal collision with Arthur's family.

Mekoyor's account painted a grim picture of the accident. Arthur, carrying his wife and youngest child on his motorcycle, collided directly with the reckless driver. Another motorcycle was transporting the house help and two other children. The impact was catastrophic, causing multiple fatalities on the spot and leaving others with severe injuries.

Spokesperson of the State Police Command, ASP Henry Okoye, confirmed the accident and revealed that three individuals involved were receiving medical attention at an undisclosed hospital. The tragedy was further validated by Justina Opara, the Badminton Coach in Imo State, who described Arthur as an industrious individual with a history of representing both the state and the nation in various sporting competitions.

As the community mourns the loss of an esteemed athlete and his family, questions regarding road safety and the consequences of reckless driving are brought to the forefront. The incident serves as a grim reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the devastating impact it can have on innocent lives.