Enugu tree crushes bus awhum – Tragedy struck Enugu State on Tuesday evening, February 17, 2026. A massive ancestral tree suddenly crashed onto a moving commercial bus during a violent thunderstorm. The incident occurred in Awhum community in Udi Local Government Area.
The tree, widely known as “Ukwu Akpu Awhum,” fell during heavy rainfall and strong winds. As a result, the tree crushed the fully loaded 18-seater bus instantly and trapped all passengers inside.
Enugu tree crushes bus awhum: How the Tragedy Happened
Eyewitnesses confirmed that the bus travelled from Ukehe in Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area to Enugu metropolis. However, the weather suddenly worsened along the route.
Moments later, strong winds shook the ancient tree. Then the tree uprooted and fell directly onto the vehicle. Consequently, the impact destroyed the bus and trapped every occupant.
Immediately, residents rushed to the scene and tried to help. However, the heavy trunk made rescue efforts slow and difficult.
SEE ALSO,
“Shocking TikTok Confession: Mirabel Claims She Was R@ped by Stranger – Or Is It a Hoax?”
WATCH VIDEO Of Moment NDLEA Found Cocaine On Lagos Businessman Uche Franklin Onyekwere
Casualty Figures Still Emerging
Early reports indicate that as many as 18 commuters may have died. Meanwhile, some official sources suggest a lower number. Therefore, authorities are still verifying the exact casualty figure.
Emergency responders have already cleared parts of the wreckage. In addition, they have recovered bodies and transported them for proper documentation.
Shock and Grief in the Community
A resident, Charly Okeke, described the incident as painful and shocking. He explained that the community has respected the tree for many years.
He also noted that although branches had fallen in the past, they never harmed anyone. This time, however, the outcome was devastating.
“We have never witnessed anything like this before. This loss is too much for us,” he said.
Speculations Surround the Tree
Some residents believe that recent activities around the tree may have contributed to the tragedy. They claim that certain youths tied red and white cloths around the trunk in search of spiritual powers.
However, authorities have not confirmed these claims. At the moment, investigators have not linked the incident to any ritual or spiritual activity.
Authorities Continue Investigation
So far, government authorities have not released a detailed official statement. Instead, they continue to assess the situation and investigate the cause of the collapse.
Officials are expected to provide further updates soon. Meanwhile, emergency teams remain on ground to complete recovery operations.
Calls for Preventive Measures
Following the tragedy, residents are calling for urgent inspection of aging roadside trees across Enugu State. They believe such checks could prevent similar disasters in the future.
In the same vein, safety experts urge authorities to combine environmental monitoring with emergency preparedness.
A State in Mourning
This tragic loss has left families and communities in deep sorrow. Loved ones now mourn those who died in the disaster.
Sojworldnews extends heartfelt condolences to all affected families.
Leave a Reply