Young street racers struck down two pedestrians during a reckless high-speed competition in Owerri, Imo State, on Sunday evening, killing one person outright and critically injuring another. The incident occurred at the busy Imo State University junction, a location where such dangerous racing has become disturbingly routine.
An eyewitness, speaking anonymously, expressed frustration that authorities hadn't intervened despite the pattern of illegal racing in the area. "They were engaging in car race, they have been doing this for some time.
I wonder why the government has not done anything to stop them," the witness told reporters.
The witness said one victim died instantly while the other suffered severe injuries and was transported to a medical facility. He added that crowds often gathered to cheer on the racers, normalizing the dangerous behaviour.
"Most times, people would gather to hail them while they engage in such recklessness. It has to be stopped," he stated.
The incident has sparked outrage across Imo State, with residents demanding swift action against those involved. Many have called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of all participants in the illegal racing.
The Imo State Police Command hadn't released an official statement on the matter as of press time.