The Cross River State Police Command has confirmed the death of an elderly woman, Mrs Affiong Peters, who collapsed and died inside a commercial minibus in Calabar. The incident occurred on Saturday night, July 11, 2026, along Edgerly Road, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Details of the Incident
According to the state police spokesperson, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, the bus driver, Mr John Okon John, reported the incident at the Atakpa Police Station around 11:30 p.m. The driver had picked up eight passengers from the Watt Market Roundabout and was heading towards the Mbukpa axis when Mrs Peters became unresponsive.
As the vehicle pulled over to allow a passenger to alight, Mrs Peters stepped out of the bus. She then sat on the ground, stopped responding to those around her, and was unable to speak. Concerned passengers immediately assisted in returning her to the vehicle, and she was rushed to the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital (UCTH) for emergency medical attention. Regrettably, she was later confirmed dead by medical personnel.
Police Statement and Family Notification
ASP Eitokpah stated that the cause of death was not immediately established. Some passengers speculated that underlying health conditions or stress may have played a role. The police spokesperson confirmed that Mrs Peters' family had been reached and notified of her passing. "The deceased's family has since been identified and duly informed. They are currently making arrangements for the preservation of her remains," Eitokpah said.
No arrests were made in connection with the incident, and the police described the event as a medical emergency.
Similar Tragedies in Nigeria
This incident echoes a previous tragedy where Oluwasola Victoria Adebayo collapsed and died while waiting for her child during the UTME in Ondo State. She reportedly complained of weakness before collapsing at the examination centre. Police released her remains to her family following the tragic incident.
In another case, the Catholic Diocese of Awka in Anambra State mourned the death of Reverend Father Anthony Udogu, who slumped and died while playing lawn tennis on Monday, May 19, 2025. The Diocesan Chancellor, Rev Fr Charles Ndubuisi, announced the tragic incident, stating that funeral arrangements would be announced soon.
