A Lagos truck driver, Okpara Onyekachi, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the death of a serving Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officer during a traffic patrol.
The tragic incident occurred on November 16, 2023, at Orile-Iganmu, Lagos, when Onyekachi, reportedly driving at excessive speed, collided with a stationary mini truck that had been flagged down for inspection.
The collision fatally injured Deputy Chief Road Marshal Assistant Ajomale, who was on duty at the time.
Following investigations, the Lagos State High Court, TBS Division, found that Onyekachi acted recklessly, negligently, and unlawfully, rejecting any claims that the incident was an accident.
He was convicted of involuntary manslaughter under the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.
The Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Shehu Mohammed, described the verdict as a landmark victory for justice and road safety enforcement.
He stressed that the ruling sends a strong message to motorists, particularly operators of heavy-duty vehicles, that reckless driving will not be tolerated.
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“Whenever a life is lost due to gross negligence, especially that of an officer performing lawful duties, the law will be enforced without compromise,” Mohammed said.
He added that the FRSC would continue to strengthen enforcement measures and work closely with relevant authorities to combat dangerous driving across the country.
The sentence highlights the serious legal consequences for traffic violations that endanger lives and underscores the commitment of Nigerian authorities to protecting road users.