One Feared Dead, Several Injured as Ministers’ Vehicle Somersaults Along Abomege Road

A tragic road accident has claimed the life of a Presbyterian minister and left several others injured after a vehicle conveying Reverend Ministers of the Upper Cross River Synod of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria was involved in a serious crash along Abomege axis of Ebonyi State.

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The ministers were reportedly traveling to Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State for a scheduled ministers’ retreat when the accident occurred.

According to a statement circulated by the Synod, the vehicle’s tyre suddenly burst while in motion, causing the driver to lose control.

The bus reportedly somersaulted three times, leading to severe impact injuries among the occupants.

Tragically, Rev. Cornelius, from Ohaeke Abam, was confirmed to have died instantly at the scene of the crash.

Other ministers who were in the vehicle sustained various degrees of injuries and are currently receiving treatment at a hospital, though their exact medical conditions have not yet been officially disclosed.

In its official message, the Upper Cross River Synod expressed deep sorrow over the incident and called on Christians and the general public to pray for the injured ministers and the bereaved family.

“The Synod of Upper Cross River kindly requests your continued prayers for most of the Ovukwu Presbytery Reverend Ministers who were headed to Yakurr for Ministers’ retreat and were involved in an accident along Abomege, Ebonyi State,” the statement read.

The church further confirmed that the tyre burst triggered the crash and announced the death of Rev. Cornelius, describing it as a painful loss to the Christian community.

News of the accident has sent shockwaves across church circles, particularly among members of the Ovukwu Presbytery and congregations connected to Rev. Cornelius.

Fellow ministers and church members have begun posting condolence messages, describing the late reverend as a devoted servant of God who committed his life to ministry and community service.

Church leaders are expected to release further details concerning burial arrangements and the medical condition of the surviving ministers in the coming days.

The crash has once again raised concerns over road safety, vehicle maintenance, and tyre conditions on Nigerian highways.

Tyre bursts remain one of the leading causes of fatal crashes in Nigeria, often linked to worn-out tyres, overloading, excessive speed, or poor road surfaces.

Road safety experts have repeatedly warned drivers and transport operators to:

• Conduct routine tyre inspections before long journeys
• Avoid overloading vehicles
• Observe speed limits
• Replace expired or weak tyres
• Rest drivers adequately before interstate travel

As investigations into the crash continue, safety advocates are urging religious organizations and transport operators to place greater emphasis on pre-trip safety checks, especially when conveying groups over long distances.

The death of Rev. Cornelius adds to the growing list of Nigerians who have lost their lives in avoidable road crashes.

Members of the Presbyterian Church, relatives, and sympathizers continue to mourn his passing, offering prayers for his soul and for the full recovery of the injured ministers.

“May the soul of Rev. Cornelius rest in peace,” the church said.