By our correspondent
A young commercial motorcyclist lost his life on Thursday morning after a tree fell on him along Abak Road in Uyo, throwing the busy area opposite the Cultural Centre into mourning.
According to eyewitness accounts shared by residents and posted on social media, the incident happened in the early hours of the day when the rider, who was said to be heading out for his daily business, was struck by a large tree that gave way along the roadside.
“What a black day for the family of this bike man,” one eyewitness wrote online.
“He was looking for his daily bread when the tree fell on him on his bike.”
Residents who gathered at the scene said the man died instantly.
As of the time of filing this report, the identity of the victim had not been officially released by authorities. Passersby were said to be at the scene, grieving the sudden loss.
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command had not issued an official statement as of press time. Community members are however urging the police and relevant emergency agencies to visit the location to confirm details and take necessary action.
The incident has renewed calls for proper inspection and management of trees along major roads in Uyo, especially with the rainy season in full swing. Heavy rainfall and strong winds in recent weeks have weakened several trees across the city, raising concerns about public safety.
“This unfortunate incident is also a reminder for relevant authorities to inspect and properly manage trees along major roads, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall and storms, to help prevent avoidable tragedies,” a resident who witnessed the event said.
Abak Road is one of Uyo’s busiest corridors, with heavy traffic of buses, tricycles, and Okada riders who depend on the route for their livelihood. Commercial riders say they leave home as early as 5am to provide for their families.
The news spread quickly on social media, with many Akwa Ibom residents expressing shock and grief.
“May his soul rest in peace,” one comment read. “We all need God in our life because it can happen anytime. My thoughts and prayers are with the victim’s family during this difficult moment.”
Another resident wrote: “Government should act fast. We cannot keep losing people to preventable incidents.”
Road safety advocates have repeatedly warned that aging trees, poor drainage, and lack of routine maintenance along urban roads pose serious risks to motorists and pedestrians.
For now, the family of the deceased Okada rider is left to grapple with an irreplaceable loss. As one mourner put it: “May the soul of the departed rest in peace.”
Authorities have not confirmed if the body has been deposited at a morgue or if an investigation has commenced.
