By Patrick Odey
Three people have reportedly lost their lives in a ghastly motor accident along Ette Junction in Ikot Abasi Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State on Wednesday, involving a Mack truck with registration number XS 761 LSD.
It was gathered that the incident occurred when the moving truck, in an attempt to overtake one of the parked vehicles belonging to Sterling Petrochemical and Fertilizer Limited, collided with a commercial tricycle, leaving three persons dead on the spot.
Though the Federal Road Safety Corps had yet to release an official statement on the crash, the management of Sterling Petrochemical and Fertilizer Limited expressed sadness over the incident and extended heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased.
In a statement obtained from the company’s media unit, Aniekeme Finbarr, in Uyo on Wednesday, the management confirmed the incident and pledged any form of support to the deceased’s families.
“We regret to confirm a tragic road traffic incident that occurred along our operational route at Ette Junction, involving a Mack truck with registration number XS 761 LSD. While overtaking one of our parked vehicles, the truck collided with a commercial tricycle, and sadly, the incident resulted in three (3) fatalities.
“We are deeply saddened by this loss and extend our heartfelt condolences to the families and loved ones of the deceased. Our thoughts are with all those affected during this very difficult time. As a member of the host community, we stand by them with all necessary support,” the statement said.
While reaffirming its commitment to upholding the highest standards of safety in its operations, the company said it has reinforced safety measures across its operational routes to prevent accidents and promote safer transportation within its host communities.
It added that the Police, JTF, and other security agencies have been mobilised to manage the situation and ensure the free flow of traffic
“The Police, JTF, and other security agencies are currently on the ground managing the situation, ensuring the free flow of traffic, and establishing the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
“We also wish to note that over the past year, we have reinforced strict safety measures across our operational routes to prevent accidents and promote safer transportation within our host communities.
“These include the distribution of free reflectors to local motorcyclists, safety awareness campaigns discouraging unsafe riding, stricter speed checks for company trucks, and the deployment of over 30 trained flagmen at high-risk areas, especially during low-visibility hours.
“SPFL remains committed to upholding the highest standards of safety in all our operations. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available,” the statement added.
