A devastating road accident has claimed the lives of six people, including five children from the same family — in Ibelebiri Community, located in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State.

The tragic incident occurred at approximately 3:30 p.m. on February 25, 2026, as the children were returning home from school in Otuasega Community.

How the Accident Happened

The victims — Isaiah David, God’s Time David, Favour David, Salvation David, and Testimony David were being transported by a relative who worked as a commercial tricycle rider.

According to residents, the rider had parked near the children’s residence when a tanker allegedly belonging to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) reportedly lost control and rammed into the stationary tricycle.

One child had crossed the road moments before the crash and survived. The others, along with the rider, were fatally crushed in the collision.

Driver Arrested, Police Investigation Ongoing

The tanker driver reportedly fled the scene immediately after the crash, while his assistant was apprehended and handed over to authorities.

The Bayelsa State Police Command confirmed the incident, stating that the driver has since been arrested and investigations are ongoing to determine the exact cause of the crash.

The bodies of the deceased were evacuated to St. Pat Mortuary in Otuasega Community for autopsy.

The heartbreaking tragedy has left the community in deep mourning, as residents await further updates from law enforcement authorities.