ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Two students of the Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, have been killed just two days before their scheduled National Diploma program graduation.
The incident occurred on Monday when a moving truck lost control and collided with the two students, Abasifreke Okon and Irene Edwin, who were said to be preparing for their practical examinations.
The impact of the collision resulted in the instantaneous death of the inseparable friends, described as “besties,” and ND 2 Science Laboratory Technology students.
The incident unfolded near the junction of Ikot Inyang village, a short distance from the school’s premises, along Aba Road in Ikot Ekpene.
The deceased, hailing from Ikot Abasi and Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Areas, were on the verge of completing their academic program after their scheduled exams on Wednesday.
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The polytechnic management, deeply affected by the tragedy, has postponed the examinations, recognizing the emotional toll on the classmates of the departed students.
Many were reported to have wept uncontrollably as the victims’ remains were evacuated to the mortuary, Punch reports.
Confirming the incident, Akwa Ibom State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Matthew Olonisaye, attributed the fatalities to reckless driving and non-adherence to road usage rules.
Expressing condolences to the bereaved families, Olonisaye urged drivers to prioritize vehicle maintenance and adhere to road safety regulations, emphasizing that accidents are preventable with responsible driving.
“It actually happened; it’s because of loss of control by the driver. We advise drivers to abide by the rules that guide the usage of the road. They should not be in a hurry.
“Drivers should also make vehicle maintenance a priority because any life lost cannot come back. Accident does not just happen, it is caused.
“I commiserate with the families of those who lost their lives,” he concluded.
The untimely loss of Abasifreke Okon and Irene Edwin has left the Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic community in mourning, as they were on the brink of celebrating their academic achievements and graduation just days before this tragic accident.