The Deputy Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Austin Okezie Meregini, has clarified reports surrounding a fatal road accident involving his convoy on Sunday, August 3, 2025, along the Port Harcourt–Aba Expressway in Obehie, Ukwa West Local Government Area.
According to an official statement from his office, the Deputy Speaker was not in the back-up vehicle that collided with a Toyota Spider during the incident. The vehicle, which was returning from an errand to Port Harcourt, was carrying the Deputy Speaker’s driver and two police escorts at the time of the crash.
Fatalities and Injuries
Tragically, both occupants of the Toyota Spider — the driver and a passenger — lost their lives in the collision. Eyewitness accounts suggest that the Toyota Spider, which was reportedly driving against traffic due to the poor condition of the road, may have suffered a tire burst or brake failure before veering into the path of the Deputy Speaker’s truck.
The impact left the truck driver and two policemen critically injured. The driver, who sustained severe spinal damage, is currently on life support at the Federal Medical Centre, Umuahia, where doctors are considering spine surgery.
Deputy Speaker’s Reaction
Rt. Hon. Meregini expressed deep sorrow over the tragic loss of lives and immediately dispatched emissaries to the bereaved family on Monday, August 4, 2025. He also assured that discussions are ongoing to determine the most appropriate way to support the family during this difficult period.
At the same time, he has been working closely with medical professionals to ensure proper care for his injured aides.
Call for Caution on Misinformation
The Deputy Speaker’s office condemned the circulation of unverified social media reports suggesting that he was directly involved in the accident. The statement urged the public and media to verify information before publication, especially in sensitive cases involving fatalities.
“The Deputy Speaker is surprised and pained by the false narratives being circulated against his person,” the statement read, stressing that such reports are both misleading and disrespectful to the bereaved family.
A Record of Empathy
Known for his philanthropic gestures, Rt. Hon. Meregini reaffirmed his commitment to supporting families in distress across Abia State and beyond, noting that his assistance has never been limited to cases where he is directly involved.
He concluded by extending his heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased, praying for the peaceful repose of their souls.
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