11 Killed in Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway Collision

At least 11 people have been confirmed dead following a devastating multiple-vehicle collision along the Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway, one of the busiest highways in southeastern Nigeria.

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The crash, which occurred in the early hours of Sunday, involved several vehicles, including commercial buses and heavy-duty trucks.

Witnesses at the scene described a horrifying chain reaction after one vehicle reportedly lost control and rammed into others, triggering a massive pile-up.

Some of the vehicles caught fire shortly after impact, trapping occupants inside and making rescue efforts extremely difficult.

Road users who arrived shortly after the crash said the scene was chaotic, with burning vehicles, scattered debris, and injured passengers crying for help.

“It was terrible. Some people were screaming inside the buses, but the fire spread too fast. Nothing could be done before emergency responders arrived,” one eyewitness told RoadKing.ng.

Several bodies were reportedly burnt beyond recognition, while others were found along the roadside, suggesting that some victims may have been thrown from their vehicles during the collision.

Personnel from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), police, and fire services were mobilised to the scene to carry out rescue operations and clear the wreckage.

Survivors were rushed to nearby hospitals for urgent medical treatment, while the remains of the deceased were deposited in morgues within the area.

An FRSC official who spoke at the scene confirmed that preliminary investigations point to speeding and possible brake failure as contributing factors.

The crash caused hours-long traffic congestion along the highway, as motorists were forced to wait while emergency teams worked to extinguish the fire and remove damaged vehicles.

Normal traffic flow was later restored after heavy-duty tow trucks cleared the affected section of the road.

The Enugu–Port Harcourt Expressway has recorded numerous fatal crashes in recent years, largely attributed to:

• Excessive speeding
• Overloading of commercial vehicles
• Poor vehicle maintenance
• Dangerous overtaking

Road safety advocates are once again calling on authorities to strengthen enforcement of traffic laws and improve road infrastructure.

To reduce the risk of similar crashes, motorists are advised to:

• Maintain safe speeds at all times
• Avoid reckless overtaking
• Regularly service brakes, tyres, and steering systems
• Keep safe following distances, especially on highways

The loss of 11 lives in this single crash is a painful reminder of Nigeria’s ongoing road safety crisis.

Until stricter enforcement, better vehicle maintenance, and responsible driving become the norm, tragedies like this will continue to occur.

RoadKing.ng will provide updates as more official details emerge.