A reckless driver has killed an officer of the Oyo State Traffic Management Authority, Kehinde Fabunmi, in Agbowo, Ibadan North Local Government Area of the state.
Fabunmi, a Level Four officer of the OYRTMA, was killed on Saturday by the driver of a black 4matic Benz with number plate LSD 862 JS, who reportedly ignored a red traffic light.
Reacting to the incident on Monday, December 16th, the Oyo State Government vowed to prosecute the driver responsible for the officer’s death.
The OYRTMA Chairman, Adekoya Adesagba, condemned Fabunmi’s killing in a statement on Monday, saying the victim died while performing his lawful duties of making Agbowo safe for motorists and commuters.
“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 force of the law,” he stated.
Adesagba commended the swift response of the police and OYRTMA officers in apprehending the suspect and expressed his condolences to the family of the deceased.
“No one who disrespects or assaults our officers will go unpunished. The suspect will be prosecuted,” he said.
“The incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by traffic officers and the need for drivers to exercise caution and respect the law.
The suspect was arraigned at the Magistrate Court, Iyaganku, on Monday but the case was adjourned until Thursday as the court was on a weekday break. The suspect remains in police custody.
“The driver, attempting to escape after being apprehended by OYRTMA officers, reversed his vehicle and, in an attempt to speed off, hit and killed Fabunmi, who had approached the vehicle from the front.
“He sustained severe head injuries and was rushed to a nearby hospital in Orogun, where he received treatment. He was later transferred to another hospital in Ibadan metropolis where he was sadly pronounced dead,” the OYRTMA boss explained.
He added that the driver attempted to flee the scene but was apprehended by officers in the University of Ibadan area.
