Cross River deputy governor, Odey, survives auto crash, vehicles damaged

Cross River State Deputy Governor, Dr Peter Odey, has survived an accident involving his convoy in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area of the state.

The accident occurred at about 2pm on Sunday as Odey and his entourage were returning to Calabar from Obanliku Local Government Area, where they attended a stakeholders’ engagement on the proposed concession of the Obudu Ranch Resort.

Although the condition of the deputy governor could not be independently confirmed as of press time, some members of his convoy were reportedly injured in the accident.

A Government House press bus conveying some appointees and staff of the Office of the Deputy Governor was said to have veered off its lane near an Army checkpoint in Ugep and crashed into three sandbag barricades.

One person whose identity was not immediately known reportedly sustained a leg injury, while another was seen bleeding from the nose. The extent of their injuries could not be immediately ascertained pending medical assessment.

Sources also said several vehicles were damaged in the incident, although the extent of the damage could not be independently verified.

The accident is reportedly the third involving the deputy governor’s convoy in the past two months, raising concerns about the state of vehicles being used for official movements.

Further checks indicated that the fleet attached to the Office of the Deputy Governor had been depleted, with vehicles from the governor’s convoy reportedly being used when necessary.

Officials in the Office of the Deputy Governor declined comments on the incident when contacted.

Further details on the accident and the condition of those involved were still being awaited as authorities assess the incident.