Fatal Highway Collision Between Student Bus and Container Truck Leaves Two Dead in Cross River

A collision between a student bus and a truck on the Calabar-Itu Highway has left two dead. Cross River Police are searching for the fleeing truck driver.

By: AXL Media

Published: May 2, 2026, 7:17 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Channels Television

Night-time Tragedy on the Calabar–Itu Corridor

A fatal road traffic accident occurred late Friday night at approximately 9:25 PM, involving a passenger bus and a heavy duty container truck. The incident took place at the Ikot Okon axis along the busy Calabar–Itu Highway, a major transit route in Cross River State. According to preliminary reports released by the Cross River State Police Command, the coaster bus was conveying several passengers at the time of the impact. The severity of the collision drew immediate attention from local residents and passing motorists before official emergency units arrived at the scene.

Casualties and Emergency Medical Response

The casualty count reached two following the initial crash and subsequent hospital treatment. One occupant of the vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene of the accident due to the impact. A second victim, who had sustained critical injuries, was confirmed dead in the early hours of Saturday morning while receiving medical care. Upon being notified of the disaster, police operatives and emergency responders mobilized to evacuate the surviving injured victims to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital for urgent stabilization and treatment.

Police Investigations and Search for the Truck Driver

A significant development in the aftermath of the crash is the disappearance of the container truck driver. First responders reported that the driver was not at the scene upon their arrival, prompting a search operation by the state police. ASP Sunday Akata, the Command’s Public Relations Officer, stated that efforts are currently ongoing to identify and locate the driver to assist with the investigation. Authorities are working to determine the exact circumstances and the primary cause of the collision, including whether mechanical failure or human error played a role.