The Oyo State Government has vowed to prosecute a reckless driver responsible for the death of Kehinde Fabunmi, an officer of the State Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), in the Agbowo area of Ibadan North Local Government.
According to Punch Online, Fabunmi, a Level Four officer with OYRTMA, was killed on Saturday by the driver of a black 4Matic Benz with license plate number LSD 862 JS.
The driver reportedly disobeyed a traffic light and was apprehended by OYRTMA officers before the incident occurred.
On Monday, the OYRTMA Chairman, Adekoya Adesagba, strongly condemned the killing, stating that Fabunmi lost his life while lawfully discharging his duties to ensure the safety of motorists and commuters in the area.
“Our officers work tirelessly to protect lives and property on the road. Anyone who assaults or disrespects them will face the full weight of the law,” Adesagba said.
He praised the swift action of the police and OYRTMA officers in apprehending the suspect and extended his condolences to the family of the deceased.
“No one who disrespects or attacks our officers will go unpunished. The suspect will face prosecution. This tragic incident is a stark reminder of the risks faced by traffic officers and the importance of drivers exercising caution and respect for the law,” he added.
The OYRTMA chairman further revealed that the suspect was arraigned at the Magistrate Court in Iyaganku on Monday. However, due to the court’s weekday break, the case was adjourned to Thursday, and the suspect remains in police custody.
Explaining the circumstances of the incident, Adesagba said the driver attempted to escape after being apprehended. “While reversing his vehicle to flee, he struck Fabunmi, who had approached the vehicle from the front. Fabunmi suffered severe head injuries and was initially rushed to a nearby hospital in Orogun. He was later transferred to another hospital within the Ibadan metropolis, where he was sadly pronounced dead.”
He added that the driver tried to flee the scene but was eventually apprehended by officers near the University of Ibadan area.
