Eyewitnesses reported that the bus, en route from Port Harcourt to Ahoada, began emitting smoke from the engine compartment shortly before the fire engulfed the entire vehicle. According to one of the passengers, the driver noticed the issue and quickly pulled over, urging everyone to evacuate.
“It was God that saved us,” said Amaka Johnson, one of the passengers. “We started smelling something burning, and before we knew it, smoke filled the bus. The driver acted fast. He stopped and shouted at everyone to get out. Within minutes, the bus was in flames.”
Thanks to the driver’s quick response and the calm cooperation of the passengers, all 18 individuals managed to escape unharmed. However, personal belongings including bags, phones, and other valuables were lost in the blaze.
Firefighters were called to the scene, but by the time they arrived, the bus had already been reduced to a smoldering shell. The cause of the fire is yet to be determined, but initial suspicions point to an electrical fault.
Officials from the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Rivers State Fire Service have launched an investigation into the incident. Meanwhile, authorities are urging commercial vehicle operators to ensure routine maintenance checks to prevent similar occurrences.
“We’re grateful there was no loss of life,” said a spokesperson for the FRSC. “But this is a stark reminder of the importance of vehicle safety checks and quick thinking during emergencies.”
The incident has sparked conversations about road safety and the state of commercial vehicles in the country, with many calling for stricter regulations and regular inspections to safeguard the lives of co
mmuters.
