By Erewunmi Peace

A tragic accident occurred in Awhum community, Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State, on Tuesday evening when a large ancestral tree collapsed onto a commercial bus, killing all 18 passengers on board.

Eyewitnesses said the incident happened during heavy rainfall, which may have weakened the roots of the massive tree, known locally as Ukwu Akpu Awhum. The bus, reportedly fully loaded with commuters, was completely crushed under the fallen tree.

Residents rushed to the scene, but emergency response was slowed by rain-soaked roads. Many onlookers described the scene as devastating, with the bus mangled beyond recognition and the area cordoned off for rescue operations.

Local authorities have confirmed the deaths of all 18 commuters and are investigating the circumstances surrounding the accident. Community members expressed shock, noting that although smaller branches from the tree had fallen in the past, nothing of this magnitude had occurred before.

The Enugu State government has promised to support the affected families and examine other potentially dangerous trees in the area to prevent similar tragedies.