Otti Directs Support for Families of 14 Killed in Fatal Road Accident

The Abia State Government has expressed deep sorrow over the death of fourteen persons in a fatal road accident that occurred on Saturday, February 14, 2026, along the Enugu Port Harcourt Expressway near the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital, Enugu.

This was contained in a release signed by the Honourable Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs Ngozi Blessing Felix.

According to the release, preliminary information indicated that the victims were travelling from Enugu when their vehicle collided with a trailer. Eleven persons reportedly died at the scene, while three others later succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash. Survivors were rushed to nearby medical facilities, including the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, for urgent medical attention.

It further stated that some of the deceased were traders operating around the Isi Gate and Bonny Street axis of Umuahia and were returning from a traditional marriage ceremony at the time of the accident.

The release noted that the tragic incident has thrown families and the wider Abia community into mourning and that Governor Alex Chioma Otti has directed the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection to immediately engage with the affected families and injured survivors to assess their needs and coordinate appropriate support measures.

The intervention is expected to cover medical assistance and compassionate relief for those impacted by the incident, as part of the government’s social protection response.

The Abia State Government said it stands in solidarity with all those affected and assured them of continued support during this difficult period. It also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting road safety awareness and collaborating with relevant authorities to reduce the occurrence of fatal accidents on major highways.

The government prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed and strength for their families as they mourn their loss, while calling on members of the public to contact the Social Protection Department of the Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection for further information.