The Oyo State Government has vowed to prosecute a reckless driver responsible for the death of an officer of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), Kehinde Fabunmi, in the Agbowo area of Ibadan North Local Government Area. The tragic incident occurred on Saturday when the driver of a Black 4matic Benz, with number plate LSD 862 JS, disobeyed a traffic light and struck the officer.
The Chairman of OYRTMA, Adekoya Adesagba, while addressing the press on Monday, condemned the reckless act, stating that Fabunmi was killed while dutifully ensuring the safety of motorists and commuters in the area. He assured the public that the suspect would be held accountable and face the full wrath of the law.
“Fabunmi died performing his lawful duties to make Agbowo safer for everyone. OYRTMA officers work tirelessly to ensure the safety of lives and property. Anyone who disrespects or assaults our officers will not go unpunished,” Adesagba emphasized.
He commended the swift action of both OYRTMA officials and the police, who apprehended the suspect shortly after the incident. Adesagba further expressed condolences to the grieving family of the deceased officer.
“The reckless driver has already been arraigned at the Magistrate Court in Iyaganku earlier today (Monday). However, due to the court’s weekday break, the case has been adjourned until Thursday. The suspect will remain in police custody until then,” he revealed.
Narrating the incident, Adesagba explained that the reckless driver, after being flagged down for disobeying traffic rules, attempted to evade arrest. In a desperate move, the driver reversed his vehicle and, while trying to speed off, fatally hit Fabunmi, who had approached the car from the front.
“The impact caused severe head injuries to the officer. He was rushed to a nearby hospital in Orogun for immediate treatment and later transferred to another hospital within the Ibadan metropolis. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead despite efforts to save him,” the OYRTMA boss said.
The driver, who also tried to flee the scene after the accident, was apprehended near the University of Ibadan area thanks to the quick response of law enforcement officers.
Adesagba used the opportunity to remind drivers of the dangers of reckless behavior and the importance of respecting traffic regulations and officials. He described the incident as a stark reminder of the risks traffic officers face daily while performing their duties.
“The government will ensure that justice is served. Reckless driving and disrespect for traffic officials must stop. We will continue to work tirelessly to make our roads safe for all users, and violators of the law will face severe consequences,” he concluded.
The incident highlights the ongoing need for stricter enforcement of road safety laws and increased awareness among motorists to ensure the safety of both traffic officials and road users in Oyo State.
