ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- Following a tragic series of incidents in Imo State on Tuesday, not less that twenty people have lost their lives across two separate events, in Imo State.
In Njaba Local Government Area, an 18-seater bus collided head-on with a Toyota Corolla at the Njaba bridge, resulting in a devastating accident that claimed the lives of all passengers in both vehicles.
An eyewitness described the scene, saying, “We heard a loud sound from a distance. When we got closer, we found the bus and the private Corolla in pieces. Everyone on board was dead—there were no survivors.”
In a separate incident the same day, an improvised explosive device (IED) detonated at the Orlu International Market, killing two individuals and injuring several others.
The explosion caused a chaotic stampede as people scrambled to escape, with many sustaining injuries amid the confusion.
READ ALSO: Mass Burial Held For 147 Victims Of Jigawa Tanker Explosion
One witness at the market recalled, “We heard a sudden explosion, and there was chaos everywhere as people ran for their lives. Some were killed in the explosion, and others were injured in the stampede that followed.”
Meanwhile, the Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, Henry Okoye, has confirmed the explosion and described it as an IED incident.
He stated, “It was an IED that exploded. Two individuals, who happened to be the perpetrators, died in the process of setting up the device, which detonated prematurely.”
The Commissioner of Police, Aboki Danjuma, immediately deployed Anti-Bomb Squad operatives to secure the market area and investigate the explosion.
“There is no cause for alarm. We have increased patrols, and we urge all residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities,” added Okoye.
This tragic day has left the people of Imo State in mourning, as authorities continue to investigate and ensure the safety of all residents in the affected areas.