Tragic Tree Collapse in Enugu Kills 18 Passengers on Commercial Bus

Awhum, Udi LGA, Enugu State — At least 18 passengers were killed after a massive ancestral tree, locally known as “Ukwu Akpu Awhum,” collapsed onto a commercial 18‑seater bus on Tuesday, during a heavy thunderstorm and rainfall. The bus was en route from Ukehe in Igbo‑Etiti LGA to Enugu metropolis when the tragedy occurred.

Eyewitnesses said the ancient tree fell without warning, crushing the bus and its occupants instantly. “The rain was very heavy, the wind was strong, and we heard a loud crash,” one resident recalled. All passengers were reportedly killed on impact.

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Local resident Charly Okeke suggested that recent human activity, including tying red and white cloths around the tree trunk for spiritual purposes, may have weakened the tree, contributing to the collapse. The community has been thrown into mourning, as families grapple with the sudden loss.

Emergency responders and local volunteers rushed to the scene, pulling survivors from the wreckage and transporting the injured to nearby hospitals. Authorities are expected to investigate the cause of the collapse, though no official statement has been released by Enugu State authorities as of now.

The tragedy highlights the dangers posed by aged trees along busy roads, especially during periods of torrential rain and strong winds, and underscores the need for public safety measures and regular assessments of roadside trees to prevent similar disasters.

Tragic Tree Collapse in Enugu Kills 18 Passengers on Commercial Bus

Kano Closes Entertainment Centres Ahead of Ramadan

The Kano State Government has ordered the immediate closure of all entertainment centres across the state as part of measures to ensure a peaceful and spiritually focused observance of Ramadan. The directive, issued by the Kano State Censorship Board, affects entertainment venues popularly known as gala houses, as well as disc jockey (DJ) operators and related entertainment outlets under the board’s regulatory jurisdiction.

Abdullahi Sulaiman, the board’s Public Relations Officer, announced that the closure will take effect from 10:00 p.m. on Wednesday, 18 February 2026, and will remain in force throughout the holy month. He explained that the action aims to create a calm and morally conducive environment for Muslim residents to observe fasting, prayers, and other religious activities without distractions.

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The board emphasised that reopening dates, particularly for Eid‑el‑Fitr celebrations, will be communicated at the appropriate time. Enforcement teams have been mobilised to ensure compliance, with sanctions for violations under the board’s regulatory mandate.

Officials clarified that the closure does not apply to event centres used for weddings, conferences, or political gatherings, which fall outside the board’s jurisdiction. Board director Usman Dankwano reiterated that only entertainment outlets such as gala houses are affected by the directive.

The government said the decision aligns with efforts to promote social harmony, maintain public order, and respect religious observances during Ramadan. Residents and business operators are urged to comply fully to avoid penalties.

The move reflects a broader pattern in northern Nigeria, where authorities adjust entertainment and public activities during Ramadan to respect cultural and religious practices while maintaining community peace.

Kano Closes Entertainment Centres Ahead of Ramadan

Asari Dokubo Warns Igbo Groups Against Sparking Religious Conflict in Rivers

Port Harcourt — Former Niger Delta militant leader and activist, Asari Dokubo, has cautioned Igbo residents and groups against any attempts to instigate a religious crisis in Rivers State, warning that such actions could destabilise the state.

In a video widely shared on social media, Dokubo urged individuals and organisations to refrain from acts capable of triggering violence, emphasising that Rivers State must not become a theatre of religious conflict. He reportedly warned of serious consequences for anyone attempting to foment unrest in the oil-rich region.

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Known for his outspoken views on regional and political issues, Dokubo highlighted the importance of peace and stability in Rivers State, which is economically significant due to its oil and gas resources.

His comments have sparked mixed reactions. The apex Igbo socio-cultural organisation, Ohanaeze Ndigbo, dismissed claims that Igbo groups were planning any form of religious war, affirming that Igbo residents in Rivers State are law-abiding and committed to peaceful coexistence.

Security authorities in the state are reportedly monitoring the situation closely, amid concerns that inflammatory rhetoric could heighten tensions in a region with a diverse ethnic and religious composition.

Observers stress that dialogue, mutual respect, and proactive conflict prevention are crucial to maintain stability in Rivers State, particularly given its history of political and communal tensions.

As of the filing of this report, the Rivers State Government has not issued an official statement regarding Dokubo’s comments.

Asari Dokubo Warns Igbo Groups Against Sparking Religious Conflict in Rivers