Senator Ekpenyong Debunks Reports of Fatal Accident on Calabar-Itu Road
By Ekanem Asuquo
Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, who represents Cross River South Senatorial District, has refuted viral media reports alleging that 17 persons lost their lives in a tragic accident along the Calabar-Itu Highway on Friday, July 4.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Senator described the reports as “entirely false and misleading,” following investigations carried out to verify the claims and render any possible assistance to victims.
“Our findings have established that the reported tragedy involving 17 lives is fake news,” he stated. “It is unsettling to see how easily misinformation can spread and the negative consequences it may carry.”
According to Senator Ekpenyong, links to the reports—which were widely circulated by some online platforms and social media users—created undue panic and distress, especially given the sensitive nature of the subject.
“I must admit I was distraught upon encountering the report online. The thought of losing 17 lives was deeply distressing. Thankfully, no lives were lost,” he added.
Some of the publications referenced include reports from Daily Post, CrossRiverWatch, and various Facebook posts, all of which have now come under scrutiny for spreading unverified information.
The Senator called on the media and the public to exercise greater responsibility in sharing information, especially on issues that could incite fear or grief.
He reaffirmed his commitment to working with the Federal Ministry of Works and the contractors handling the Calabar-Itu Road project to ensure the safety of commuters and timely delivery of the road infrastructure.
“We remain committed to engaging constructively with relevant authorities to ensure the road is safe and completed within timelines,” the statement concluded.
The Calabar-Itu road, a key route connecting Cross River and Akwa Ibom States, is currently under reconstruction, with ongoing efforts to address its long-standing safety and structural concerns.
