Fatal accident near Four Road junction deepens public anger as residents decry market closures and question the continued blackout despite Bayelsa’s gas turbine project.

A tragic road accident claimed at least three lives on Friday in Obogoro, near the busy Four Road junction in Yenagoa, casting a dark shadow over President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to the state.

According to eyewitnesses and local accounts, the crash involved a vehicle reportedly identified by residents as belonging to an individual known as “Lloyd Joe.” The incident occurred close to residential buildings, leaving the community shaken. While the exact cause of the accident remains unconfirmed, many residents suspect it may be linked to traffic gridlocks and movement restrictions enforced during the presidential convoy’s movement.

The sudden loss of lives sparked grief and anger among locals, some of whom said the crash happened just steps from their homes. “It happened very close to where we live,” one resident said, expressing frustration over what many described as a preventable tragedy.

The incident unfolded against the backdrop of widespread disruption across Yenagoa, where commercial activities were reportedly halted as part of security measures for the President’s visit. The popular Swali Market, a major economic hub in the state, was among the areas affected, forcing traders to suspend operations for the day.

Residents and business owners voiced concern over the economic toll of the shutdown, questioning the necessity of such sweeping restrictions. “People depend on daily earnings to survive. Why shut everything down because of a visit?” a trader asked.

Beyond the immediate tragedy and disruptions, the situation has reignited public scrutiny over Bayelsa’s persistent electricity challenges, particularly the much-talked-about gas turbine project that has yet to deliver stable power supply. Many residents expressed frustration over continued blackouts despite the state’s energy potential, describing the situation as both ironic and unacceptable.

Unverified claims circulating on social media have also attempted to link the presidential convoy to the crash. However, no official confirmation has been provided, and authorities have yet to release a detailed statement clarifying the circumstances surrounding the incident.

As investigations are expected to commence, residents are calling for transparency, accountability, and urgent reforms to prevent similar occurrences in the future.