TRAGEDY struck Awhum community in Udi Local Council of Enugu State on Tuesday night when a heavy rainstorm uprooted a large tree, killing 11 persons and destroying two vehicles.
The rain, which began with strong winds, brought down the tree at the Awhum village square at about 8:45 p.m., causing extensive damage.

The Enugu State Police Command confirmed the incident yesterday, stating that no fewer than 11 persons lost their lives. The police added that a Toyota Hiace bus and a Sienna minivan were destroyed in the incident.
The Police Public Relations Officer in the state, Daniel Ndukwe, said the vehicles had departed from Old Park in Enugu metropolis and were dropping off passengers in Awhum community when the tree fell on them.

“Upon receiving the report, operatives attached to the 9th Mile Division swiftly responded and, with the assistance of community members, rescued four persons trapped in the vehicles and secured the scene.
“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 necessary procedures,” he said.

Ndukwe added that preliminary findings showed the vehicles had conveyed passengers from Old Park, Enugu, to various villages within the Awhum/Okpatu axis and had stopped to drop off some occupants when the tree, weakened by heavy rainfall, strong winds and apparent internal decay, collapsed on them.
He conveyed the condolences of the Commissioner of Police to the families of the deceased and the entire Awhum community over the incident.

The police spokesman advised 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.