The Oyo State Government has vowed to prosecute a driver responsible for the death of Fabunmi Kehinde, an officer of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA). The tragic incident occurred on Saturday in the Agbowo area of Ibadan.
Fabunmi, a Level 4 OYRTMA officer, was fatally struck by the driver of a black 4matic Benz with registration number LSD 862 JS. The driver reportedly disobeyed a traffic light and was apprehended by OYRTMA officers before attempting to escape. In the process, the driver reversed his vehicle and struck Fabunmi, who had approached the car.
According to eyewitnesses, Fabunmi sustained severe head injuries and was rushed to a hospital in Orogun for treatment. He was later transferred to another facility within the Ibadan metropolis but unfortunately succumbed to his injuries. The driver, who attempted to flee the scene, was apprehended near the University of Ibadan and handed over to the police at Sango Police Station.
Speaking on the incident, OYRTMA Chairman, Major Adekoya Adesagba (rtd), condemned the act, describing it as a tragic loss of life in the line of duty. He stated that Fabunmi was carrying out his lawful responsibilities to ensure road safety for motorists and commuters in Agbowo when the incident occurred.
“The brutal killing of Mr. Fabunmi while performing his duties is unacceptable. OYRTMA officers work tirelessly to safeguard lives and property on our roads, and any assault on them will not be tolerated,” Adesagba said.
He praised the swift response of OYRTMA officers and the police in apprehending the suspect and assured that justice would be served. “No one who disrespects or assaults our officers will go unpunished,” he added.
Adesagba also extended his condolences to the family of the deceased officer and thanked the Oyo State Government for its ongoing support in maintaining road safety.
The suspect was arraigned at the Magistrate Court in Iyaganku on Monday. However, the case was adjourned to Thursday due to the court’s weekday recess, and the suspect remains in police custody.
