Lawrence Nwimo, Awka
Anambra State Government has refuted claims that its revenue officials were responsible for a tragic road accident that occurred in the state yesterday.
Reports in social media had it that the accident which occurred along Ekwulobia-Awka road was caused by the activities of Anambra Road Traffic Management Agency (ARTMA).
Ikengaoline learned that about five persons were confirmed dead and six injured when a BUA cement heavy-duty vehicle on course at the Eke Agwbu market in Orumba North Local Government Area, crashed into some other vehicles.
In a statement, Chief Press Secretary to the state Governor, Chris Aburime, said activities of the government’s revenue agents did not cause the accident, but blamed it on over-speeding on the part of the trailer and brake failure.
The statement read: “The Government of Anambra State has denied allegations of activities of its revenue agents being responsible for the recent tragic road accident involving a trailer and other vehicles that sadly caused loss of lives at the Eke Awgbu area of the state.
“While also expressing its sympathy and condolences to the victims and families affected by the unfortunate incident, the government categorically debunks the baseless and malicious claims being circulated by certain opposition elements suggesting that the accident was caused by revenue agents of the state, derogatorily referred to as “Soludo Boys.” These assertions are found to be false and unsubstantiated.
“A thorough investigation has been conducted by the Anambra State Board of Internal Revenue, and the findings are clear: the accident was caused by a trailer carrying cement that experienced brake failure while descending the slope at Eke Awgbu, leading to the tragic crash. This is a matter of mechanical failure and not the result of any actions by state revenue agents, as falsely alleged.
“It is deeply regrettable that instead of focusing on the real issues and contributing to public safety, certain desperate opposition figures have continued to exploit tragic incidents for political gain by peddling propaganda against the Governor of Anambra State, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR.
“Drivers are hereby advised to always observe safe driving practices, especially on how to handle slopes descent, the dangers of driving under the influence, alcohol, the importance of avoiding distractions such as mobile phone usage while driving, and the necessity of regular vehicle maintenance checks, are crucial for preventing such tragedies in the future.
“The Soludo administration remains committed to improving the safety and well-being of all Anambra State residents and will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that our roads are safe and that such incidents are minimized through proactive measures and public education campaigns.”
Also reacting, a spokesperson of Anambra state Command of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Margret Onagbe, confirmed that it was caused by the break failure of the trailer which unfortunately crashed into the bush killing five persons and injuring six persons.
