The Oyo State Government has pledged to prosecute a reckless driver responsible for the death of Kehinde Fabunmi, an officer of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA). Fabunmi was fatally struck on Saturday in the Agbowo area of Ibadan North Local Government while on duty.
The incident occurred when a Black Mercedes-Benz 4MATIC with registration number LSD862JS reportedly ignored a traffic light and was subsequently stopped by OYRTMA officers. In a desperate attempt to escape, the driver reversed the vehicle and, while trying to speed away, fatally hit Fabunmi, who had approached the car from the front.
The officer sustained severe head injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital in Orogun. He was later transferred to another facility within Ibadan, where he was pronounced dead.
Speaking on the matter on Monday, the OYRTMA Chairman, Adekoya Adesagba, condemned the tragic incident, emphasizing that Fabunmi was performing his lawful duty of ensuring road safety when he was killed.
“OYRTMA officers are dedicated to safeguarding lives and property on our roads. Anyone who assaults or disrespects these officers will face the full wrath of the law,” Adesagba said.
He praised the swift action of the police and OYRTMA officers, who apprehended the suspect near the University of Ibadan area shortly after the incident. Adesagba also expressed his condolences to the family of the deceased officer.
“The suspect has been arraigned at the Magistrate Court, Iyaganku, today (Monday). However, due to the court’s weekday break, the case has been adjourned until Thursday. The suspect will remain in police custody,” he stated.
Adesagba described the incident as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by traffic management officers daily and reiterated the need for drivers to exercise caution and obey traffic laws.
“The killing of our officer is a serious offence, and justice will be served. No one who disrespects or endangers our officers will go unpunished,” he added.
The government has assured the public that the prosecution of the suspect will be pursued vigorously to serve as a deterrent to others.
