A devastating tragedy unfolded in the Ugep community within Cross River State’s Yakurr Local Government Area, where a family of six lost their lives in a heart-wrenching auto accident along the Bekwara-Abochiche road.

The fatal accident occurred last weekend, claiming the lives of Mr. Edet Eteng, his wife, Ikow, and four of their children.

Reports reveal that the four children were laid to rest on Tuesday, September 19, 2023, in Ugep, while the remains of the husband and wife were taken to a hospital mortuary in Ogoja Local Government Area.

The Eteng family, who ordinarily resided in Abuja, were visiting their village, Ugep, to partake in the Leboku festival.

The tragedy struck as the family was en route to Abuja, with their vehicle colliding with an oncoming vehicle.

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Witnesses at the scene reported that the accident occurred when the Eteng family’s vehicle veered from its lane and collided head-on with the approaching vehicle.

The devastating loss has left other family members in a state of shock, exacerbated by the recent passing of Mr. Eteng’s elderly mother just days after celebrating her birthday.

Confirming the incident, the Cross River State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), SC Istifanus Ibrahim, stated that the accident, involving two vehicles, also resulted in injuries to two other occupants.

He mentioned that the accident happened near the Otokpuru area in Bekwarra Local Government Area, with the victims being transported to Abuochichie Cottage Hospital.

Ibrahim emphasized the probable cause of the fatal accident as overspeeding, cautioning road users, especially drivers, to exercise responsibility and reduce speed during the rainy season, as unforeseen circumstances can arise that are beyond their control.