The Oyo State Government has pledged to take strong legal action against a reckless driver responsible for the tragic death of Kehinde Fabunmi, an officer with the State Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA). The incident occurred in the Agbowo area of Ibadan North Local Government on Saturday.
According to reports from Punch Online, Fabunmi, a Level Four officer with OYRTMA, was fatally struck by a black 4Matic Benz with the license plate number LSD 862 JS. The driver of the vehicle had initially disobeyed a traffic light, leading to his interception by OYRTMA officers before the fatal incident occurred.
On Monday, the OYRTMA Chairman, Adekoya Adesagba, condemned the killing, emphasizing that Fabunmi was performing his lawful duties to ensure road safety when he lost his life. Adesagba stated that the death of Fabunmi is a painful reminder of the daily dangers traffic officers face in their line of duty to protect both motorists and commuters.
In his statement, Adesagba expressed his outrage, saying, “Our officers are dedicated to ensuring the safety of lives and property on the road. Anyone who assaults or disrespects our officers will be held accountable and face the full weight of the law.” He also praised the quick response from both the police and OYRTMA officers who apprehended the suspect and extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased officer.
“No one who disrespects or attacks our officers will go unpunished,” Adesagba added. “The suspect will face prosecution. This tragic incident highlights the dangers faced by traffic officers daily and reinforces the need for drivers to respect the law and exercise caution on the roads.”
Following the incident, the OYRTMA Chairman revealed that the suspect was promptly arraigned before the Magistrate Court in Iyaganku on Monday. However, due to the court's weekday break, the case was adjourned to Thursday, with the suspect remaining in police custody until then.
Adesagba further explained the circumstances surrounding the incident, saying the driver attempted to flee the scene after being initially apprehended by OYRTMA officers. “As the driver reversed his vehicle in an attempt to escape, he struck Fabunmi, who was positioned at the front of the vehicle,” Adesagba explained. “Fabunmi suffered severe head injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital in Orogun for emergency care. Unfortunately, despite efforts to save him, he was later transferred to another hospital within Ibadan, where he was pronounced dead.”
Despite the driver's attempt to flee the scene, OYRTMA and police officers were able to capture him near the University of Ibadan area. Authorities have vowed to ensure that the driver faces appropriate legal consequences for his actions.
