Families of 16 accident victims ask Abia Govt to fulfill financial support pledge

Widows and relatives of 16 traders who died in an accident on the Enugu-Port Harcourt highway have demanded that the Abia State government fulfill a financial assistance promise made to them after the incident. The accident occurred on February 15, 2026, involving traders returning from a wedding in Enugu. The families have been visiting the Abia State Ministry of Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection for eight months, but have not received the promised assistance.

A widow, Mrs. Nwankwo Jane Uzoamaka, expressed frustration and concern, stating that rumors indicate the money has been approved by Governor Alex Otti but has not been disbursed. Another widow, Mrs. Amarachi, lost her husband, mother, and grandmother in the accident, and expressed urgency for the money. The Abia State Commissioner for Poverty Alleviation and Social Protection, Mrs. Ngozi Felix, confirmed that the money is still being processed but will not be released through an intermediary.