The fatal collision transpired when the truck driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle, leading to a horrific crash that claimed the lives of the two female students. The victims, identified as Abasifreke Okon and Irene Edwin from Ikot Abasi and Ibesikpo Asutan LGA respectively, were both ND 2 Science Laboratory Technology students and best friends. They were preparing for their practical examinations scheduled for Wednesday, January 10, when the tragic incident occurred.

The loss of Abasifreke and Irene has left the Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic community in mourning. Described as inseparable best friends, the two students were on the brink of completing their academic program after their exams on Wednesday.

In the aftermath of this devastating event, the polytechnic's management took the difficult decision to postpone the scheduled examinations, allowing the students and the institution to grieve and come to terms with the tragic loss.

Confirming the incident, Matthew Olonisaye, the Akwa Ibom State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), attributed the accident to reckless driving. In a plea to drivers, he urged them to prioritize the maintenance of their vehicles and abide by the rules governing road usage.

Olonisaye stated, "It actually happened, it's because of loss of control by the driver. We advise drivers to abide by the rules that guide the usage of the road; they should not be in a hurry. Drivers should also make vehicle maintenance a priority, for any life lost cannot come back. An accident does not just happen; it is caused. I commiserate with the families of those who lost their lives."

As the Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic community grapples with this tragic loss, the incident serves as a somber reminder of the importance of road safety and the need for drivers to exercise caution to prevent such heart-wrenching accidents.