Calabar: Two Mini Buses Crash Opposite Municipal Council Gate

A collision accident occurred this morning in Calabar, Cross River State, when two commercial mini buses collided head-on opposite the Municipal Council gate along Marian Road.

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The crash, which happened on the wet, rain-soaked stretch of the busy road, drew the attention of passersby and commuters, leaving both vehicles badly damaged and traffic disrupted for several minutes.

Eyewitnesses at the scene reported that the white mini bus, traveling inbound Marian Road, rammed into the rear of a blue-and-white commercial bus which had slowed down at the traffic light junction close to the Municipal Council gate. The impact left the front bumper and bonnet of the white bus mangled, while the blue bus suffered extensive damage to its rear.

The collision occurred just after a heavy downpour, and the slippery nature of the road may have contributed to the inability of the white bus driver to stop in time.

One witness, a roadside trader, recounted:

“The rain had just stopped, and cars were moving cautiously. Suddenly, the white bus just went straight and hit the other one from behind. It was very loud, and people rushed immediately to see if anyone was hurt.”

Casualties and Response

As at the time of reporting, no deaths have been confirmed. However, several passengers in both vehicles sustained minor injuries, mostly from the sudden jolt and broken glass. Good Samaritans and bystanders quickly rushed to assist victims, pulling them out of the buses before security personnel and traffic wardens arrived at the scene.

Emergency services, including the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and a local ambulance, were later seen arriving to take control of the situation. The injured were reportedly transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention.

Road Safety Concerns

This accident highlights the increasing danger of wet-season driving in Nigeria. Roads like Marian Road in Calabar, which experience high traffic flow and poor drainage, become especially risky during rainfall. The lack of sufficient cautionary road signs and reflective markings further compounds the problem, putting road users at risk.

According to FRSC’s 2024 report, over 30% of rainy-season crashes in Nigeria are caused by speeding and inadequate braking distance on wet roads. This incident serves as yet another reminder of the importance of obeying speed limits, maintaining functional brakes, and ensuring adequate vehicle spacing, especially under poor visibility and wet conditions.

Official Statements

As at press time, neither the Cross River State Traffic Management Authority (CRSTMA) nor the FRSC has issued an official statement. However, road safety officers on-site urged drivers to exercise caution and avoid tailgating, particularly in congested areas like Marian Road.

Conclusion

The Calabar mini bus collision may not have claimed lives, but it disrupted traffic and endangered passengers. It underscores the urgent need for:

• More road safety awareness campaigns in Cross River State.
• Installation of speed limit signs and reflective road markings.
• Better driver discipline, especially during the rainy season.

Every crash avoided is a life saved. Motorists are reminded that safety on the road depends not only on their driving but also on anticipating the mistakes of others.