11 killed when tree topples on commercial vehicle in Nigeria

​​​​​​LAGOS, Nigeria

At least 11 people were killed Wednesday after a massive tree fell on two commercial vehicles at Awhum Village Market Square in the Udi Local Government Area of Enugu State in southeast Nigeria.

The accident involved a bus and a minivan.

State Police Public Relations Officer Daniel Ndukwe told Anadolu in a statement that the victims were passengers who boarded the vehicles from Old Park, Enugu, and were headed to villages in the southeast regions.

The vehicles reportedly stopped at the market square to drop off passengers when the tree fell.

“Upon receiving the report, operatives attached to 9th Mile Division swiftly responded and, with the assistance of community members, rescued four persons trapped in the vehicles and secured the scene,” according to the statement. “Regrettably, the eleven other victims were rushed to the hospital but were later confirmed dead by attending doctors. Their remains have been deposited in the mortuary for further necessary procedures.”

Police issued a safety advisory to community leaders and residents across the state to be proactive in environmental maintenance.

“The police advises community leaders and residents across the State to regularly inspect and maintain large or ageing trees around markets, motor parks, schools, and residential areas, particularly during the rainy season, to prevent similar tragedies,” Ndukwe said in the statement.