The Nigerian Army says a vehicle conveying candidates of the 91 Regular Recruits Intake from Obinze Barracks, Owerri, Imo State to Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria, was involved in an accident, along the Owerri–Port Harcourt Expressway
The army noted that the unfortunate incident resulted in multiple casualties in which two lives were lost; while a soldier, 13 candidates and the bus driver sustained varying degree of injuries.
Lt.-Col. Olabisi Ayeni, the acting Deputy Director Army Public Relations, 82 Division Nigerian Army, in a statement on Sunday in Enugu, said that the accident occurred in the early hours of Saturday, June 27.
Ayeni said that the critically injured victims were immediately evacuated to the Federal Medical Centre, Owerri; while others are receiving medical treatment at the Brigade Medical Centre.
“The accident occurred at about 5:30 am, approximately two kilometres from Obinze Barracks along the Owerri–Port Harcourt Expressway, when one of the buses conveying the candidates was involved in a collision with a tipper truck.
“Regrettably, the bus conductor and one candidate succumbed to their injuries despite efforts to save their lives. Their families have been informed accordingly.
“While one soldier, 13 candidates and the bus driver sustained varying degrees of injuries and have been taken to medical facilities,” he said
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The spokesman said that Maj.-Gen. Oluremi Fadairo, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division Nigerian Army, had extended his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased and prayed for the peaceful repose of their souls.
Ayeni said that the GOC also wished the injured personnel and candidates a speedy and full recovery.
He noted that an investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident had commenced.
Meanwhile, arrangements have been made to ensure the safe movement of the remaining candidates to Depot Nigerian Army, Zaria.
“The headquarters 82 Division Nigerian Army urges members of the public to disregard any misleading or unverified information circulating on social media regarding the incident.
“The public is encouraged to rely only on official statements issued by the Nigerian Army,” he added.
