Couple Killed In Abuja After NURTW Touts’ Attempt To Hijack Vehicle

* Angry Mob Lynch Culprits

* Residents Express Rage At Touts’ Activities on Abuja Roads

Tragedy struck at the Mabushi bridge in Abuja on Wednesday when a couple, identified as Mr. and Mrs. Monday Ihekwereme, lost their lives in a car crash caused by touts reportedly members of the notorious National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW). The incident occurred when the couple stopped to drop off a friend under the bridge. The touts suddenly rushed at them, grabbing at the steering wheel in an attempt to hijack their car. In the ensuing struggle, the vehicle, a Toyota Highlander, ran into the pillar of the bridge killing the couple instantly.

Witnesses report that a crowd of angry passersby who witnessed the accident, seized three of the touts and set them on fire. One died on the spot, while the other two were rescued and are currently in critical condition at the hospital.

The corpses of the couple have been deposited at the National Hospital morgue. Slyke Bulletin investigations reveal that the victims were parents of four boys and were regarded in their estate of residence as “a very likable couple” who were deeply invested in their family life.

This incident is not isolated, as residents have shared similar bitter experiences with these touts. A civil servant, Mr. Eluu, recounted a harrowing experience two years ago when the NURTW touts jumped into his vehicle under the Area One bridge, grabbing at the steering wheel in a bid to hijack it. In the ensuing struggle, his Toyota Highlander crashed into a diplomatic vehicle, causing substantial damage. The Police were of little help, advising him to settle with the affected embassy.

Many residents of the Federal Capital Territory have complained about the dangerous activities of these touts, who routinely seize private vehicles parked at bus stops by manhandling the driver and extort motorists of sums between N20,000 to N30,000.

Another resident shared a similar experience under the Apo Bridge, where NURTW touts jumped into his vehicle as he stopped to drop off a colleague and began to struggle for the steering wheel, damaging several other vehicles in the process. The sad incident at Mabushi calls into question the transport system of Nigeria’s capital and highlights the need for effective measures to address the issue of touting and extortion.

The families of the deceased have been contacted and are still trying to come to terms with the tragedy. The incident has sparked public outrage and calls for action to prevent such tragedies in the future.