By Rhoda Godwin
At least three persons have been confirmed dead, while several others sustained injuries following a fatal road accident involving a heavy-duty trailer at the Goodluck Jonathan Bridge in the Swali area of Yenagoa, Bayelsa State.
The accident, which occurred on Saturday, was reportedly caused by brake failure as the trailer attempted to climb the bridge. Eyewitnesses said the vehicle lost control and rammed into other road users, triggering panic and confusion at the busy corridor.
Residents and commuters at the scene immediately mobilised to rescue victims, as some of the injured were evacuated before the arrival of emergency responders. The crash also led to a serious traffic gridlock, with vehicles stranded on both sides of the bridge.
Confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Bayelsa State Police Command, ASP Musa Muhammad, said three persons lost their lives in the accident, while several others were injured and taken to hospitals for treatment.
According to the PPRO, the newly posted Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Iyamah Daniel, promptly responded after receiving reports of the crash. He said the Commissioner immediately deployed police operatives and medical teams to the scene to evacuate victims, provide urgent medical assistance and manage traffic.
ASP Muhammad explained that the police also secured the area to prevent further accidents and ensure the safety of other road users, while efforts were made to ease the congestion caused by the incident.
CP Iyamah Daniel recently resumed office as the Commissioner of Police for the Bayelsa State Command, taking over from CP Francis Idu, who was promoted to the rank of Assistant Inspector General (AIG) of Police.
As of press time, the identities of the deceased had not been released, while the injured victims were said to be responding to treatment in different medical facilities within Yenagoa.
Investigations have since commenced to determine the circumstances surrounding the crash, including the roadworthiness of the trailer and compliance with traffic regulations.
The Goodluck Jonathan Bridge remains one of the major transport routes in Yenagoa and frequently experiences heavy traffic, particularly from articulated vehicles. Residents have once again called on relevant authorities to intensify vehicle safety checks and enforce traffic laws to prevent recurring tragedies on the bridge.
Police authorities assured the public that further updates would be provided as investigations continue.
