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 (OYRTMA), Kehinde Fabunmi, at Agbowo, Ibadan North Local Government Area.
The tragic incident occurred on Saturday when a Black 4matic Benz with number plate **LSD 862 JS** disobeyed traffic signals and was apprehended by OYRTMA officers. While attempting to evade arrest, the driver reversed his vehicle, fatally hitting Fabunmi, who had approached the car from the front.
OYRTMA Chairman, Adekoya Adesagba, condemned the reckless act while speaking to reporters on Monday. He expressed deep sorrow over the loss and praised Fabunmi for his dedication to ensuring safety on the roads.
He stated: *“Fabunmi 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 wrath of the law.”*
Adesagba also commended the swift response of the police and OYRTMA officials in apprehending the suspect. The driver, who attempted to flee after the incident, was caught near the University of Ibadan area.
Providing further details, the OYRTMA Chairman explained that Fabunmi sustained severe head injuries after being hit and was rushed to a nearby hospital in Orogun. Despite receiving treatment and later being transferred to another hospital in Ibadan, he was pronounced dead.
The suspect was arraigned at the Magistrate Court, Iyaganku, on Monday, but proceedings were adjourned till Thursday due to a weekday court break. The driver remains in police custody.
Adesagba reiterated that the government would not tolerate any assault or disrespect towards traffic officers. *“No one who disrespects or assaults our officers will go unpunished. The suspect will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.”*
He further emphasized the dangers traffic officers face daily and urged drivers to exercise caution and respect traffic laws to avoid similar tragedies.
