Pothole claims Customs officer’s life on Ikom-Calabar highway

A 54-year-old Customs officer, Prince Etteng Ise, has died in a lone road crash allegedly triggered by an attempt to avoid a pothole on the Ikom-Calabar Highway in Cross River State.

Ise, who was serving at the Mfum Border in Etung Local Government Area, reportedly lost control of his vehicle while trying to manoeuvre around a pothole near Alesi Village, Ikom Local Government Area.

The crash occurred at about 2:56 p.m. on Monday, 7 September 2026, according to the Cross River State Police Command.

The vehicle reportedly veered off the highway into the bush before crashing into a tree.

The victim was rushed to Holy Family Hospital, Ikom, where a medical doctor confirmed him dead. His remains were subsequently deposited at the hospital mortuary.

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The fatal crash has once again drawn attention to the deplorable condition of sections of the Ikom-Calabar Highway, where potholes and other road defects pose serious risks to motorists.

Confirming the incident in a statement, the Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah Akata, said preliminary information indicated that the deceased lost control of his vehicle while attempting to avoid a pothole.

The command commiserated with the deceased’s family, colleagues and the Nigeria Customs Service over the tragedy.

It also urged motorists to exercise caution, avoid excessive speed and remain vigilant while using the highway.

The death of the Customs officer adds to growing concerns over the safety of motorists on major roads in Cross River, particularly stretches where deteriorating road surfaces have made driving increasingly hazardous.