Increase Tragic Motor Accident In Owerri Gov. Uzodimma Urges To Bring Back Traffic Management Team, ISTMA
Anselem Anokwute
Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has been urged to reinstate the Comr. Frank Obi Uche, led, Imo State Traffic Management Control Team (ISTMA) under the Ministry of Transport Imo State to prevent further loss of life due to accidents in the state.
This call follows a tragic motor accident at the Imo State University (IMSU) Junction and Egbu Road by Christiana Bus stop in Owerri North which claimed the lives of at least 20 people.
The accident at IMSU Junction occurred when a trailer tanker lost control and collided with six other vehicles, including a tipper lorry.
The IMSU Junction has a history of accidents, leading to the construction of a pedestrian bridge and roundabout by the previous government.
However, the current government removed these structures and replaced them with a traffic light.
The disbandment of the ISTMA team, which was previously responsible for monitoring and controlling traffic, has been blamed for the recent increase in accidents.
Sympathizers and residents of Owerri have called for the reinstatement of ISTMA to address the growing number of accidents in the state capital.
They argue that the team’s presence was effective in preventing accidents and maintaining order on the roads.
The government has been urged to take responsibility and hold those complicit accountable for the tragic accident.
Additionally, there have been allegations that some individuals petitioned the governor to disband ISTMA, leading to the current chaotic situation on the roads.
The accident has highlighted the need for effective traffic management and enforcement of traffic laws, including the restriction of heavy trucks from plying major roads during peak hours.
The government has been urged to extend the restriction period to 7 PM and ensure that drivers, especially commercial keke bus drivers, obey traffic rules and regulations.
The absence of ISTMA led by Comrade Franklyn Obi Uche has resulted to the resurgence of illegal motor parks and street trading in Owerri Municipality, undermining the achievements made in keeping the city free from traffic congestion and accidents in the past four years.