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, Kehinde Fabunmi, at Agbowo in Ibadan North Local Government Area.
The tragic incident happened on Saturday when a driver of a black 4matic Benz with number plate LSD 862 JS disobeyed a traffic light and was stopped by OYRTMA officers.
Speaking on Monday, the OYRTMA Chairman, Adekoya Adesagba, condemned the killing of Fabunmi, a Level Four officer, who was carrying out his lawful duty to ensure safety on the roads.
He said, “OYRTMA officers are working tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of lives and property. Anyone who assaults or disrespects them will face the full wrath of the law.”
Adesagba also praised the swift action of the police and OYRTMA officers in apprehending the suspect, while expressing his condolences to the family of the deceased.
“No one who disrespects or assaults our officers will go unpunished. The suspect will be prosecuted. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by traffic officers and the need for drivers to exercise caution and respect for the law,”* he added.
According to the OYRTMA Chairman, Fabunmi had approached the vehicle from the front after the driver was stopped for disobeying traffic rules. In an attempt to escape, the driver reversed his vehicle and sped off, hitting Fabunmi in the process.
Fabunmi suffered severe head injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital at Orogun for treatment. He was later transferred to another hospital within Ibadan but was sadly pronounced dead.
Adesagba explained that the driver tried to flee the scene but was eventually arrested by officers near the University of Ibadan.
The suspect was arraigned at the Magistrate Court, Iyaganku, on Monday. However, due to the court being on a weekday break, the case was adjourned to Thursday. The driver remains in police custody until the next hearing.
