After an Easter Sunday tragedy on Okapanam Road, Delta State Government is now set to uprooting overgrown, weakened trees along Okpanam Road to prevent more casualties.
The tragedy occured on Easter Sunday, April 6, 2026 along Okpanam Road, in Asaba, Delta State capital when a windstorm uprooted an aged tree which fell onto a moving commercial tricycle “keke”killing the rider, a female passenger instantly and leaving several passengers injured.
Delta State Commissioner for Environment Jamani Ejiro confirmed he got distress calls and mobilized to the scene with the Commissioner for Transport, Onoriode Agofure, and ministry staff to evacuate the fallen tree and restore traffic.
Preliminary findings show several trees along Okpanam Road are overgrown with weakened root systems, making them highly vulnerable to collapse during bad weather.
The state government has already begun urgent steps to identify and remove hazardous trees in affected areas to prevent a recurrence
“Several trees on this corridor are overgrown and have weakened root systems, making them vulnerable to collapse during windstorms. This poses a serious risk to lives and property we have identified them and they will be cut down to enable us plant new trees for the aesthetics and the conservation of the environment. We appeal to residents to remain cautious, especially during periods of winds and rainfall. We remain committed to safeguarding lives and ensuring a safer environment for all” Commissioner for Environment Janani Ejiro said.
Over forty mango trees that have stood on the road since colonial times will be all be uprooted and new ones planted.
