Nigeria: Mini bus plunges into Ogoja River, five dead

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

Tragedy struck in Ogoja, Cross River State, when a small intra-city bus traveling from Igoli to Abakpa veered off the road and plunged into the river, leaving five passengers dead.

According to witnesses, the bus sank quickly, and only the driver was able to leap out and escape before the vehicle went under.

Residents say the accident highlights long-standing safety concerns about the Abakpa River bridge. One resident, Idah Roland, described the situation as dangerous, explaining that the bridge lacks protective barriers or guardrails that could prevent vehicles from slipping off the narrow passage. He called for urgent action to make the area safer.

The bridge is currently undergoing renovation by the state government, and because it is narrow—with motorcycles and vehicles frequently competing for space—traffic jams and risky maneuvers are common. Locals say accidents happen regularly, with reports of vehicles falling into the river while trying to navigate uneven portions of the road.

Attempts to reach the Federal Road Safety Corps office nearby were unsuccessful, as officials were reportedly out on patrol at the time.