Tragedy struck Ibelebiri in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State on Wednesday afternoon when a fuel tanker collided with a tricycle, popularly known as Keke Napep, killing the driver and four children.
The crash, which occurred along the Ibelebiri stretch of the Yenegwe–Okarki–Otuasega road, plunged the predominantly farming and fishing community into mourning.
Eyewitnesses said the victims were returning from school when the tanker, suspected to have suffered brake failure, skidded off the road and crushed the tricycle. The children were pupils of a school in Otuasega Community, and the tricycle driver was a family member who regularly transported them.
According to an eyewitness, the tricycle was parked near the children’s residence when the accident occurred. One pupil had already crossed the road to enter their home when the tanker, bearing an NNPC logo, struck the Keke, crushing those inside before they could get out.
The tanker driver reportedly fled the scene, but the conductor was apprehended by military personnel and handed over to the police.
A Federal Road Safety Commission, FRSC, officer, speaking on condition of anonymity, commended the youths of the community for maintaining peace and helping secure the tanker, preventing further escalation.
Musa Mohammed, spokesman of the State Police Command, confirmed the incident and said authorities have launched an investigation.
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