The conviction followed the death of the officer during a traffic enforcement operation in Orile-Iganmu, Lagos, on November 16, 2023.
A Lagos State High Court has sentenced a truck driver, Okpara Kingsley Onyekachi, to life imprisonment for killing a Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officer while on duty.
The conviction followed the death of the officer during a traffic enforcement operation in Orile-Iganmu, Lagos, on November 16, 2023.
According to a statement issued by the FRSC Corps Public Education Officer, Segun Ogungbemide, the fatal incident occurred while an FRSC patrol team was carrying out routine traffic checks in the area.
Investigations revealed that Onyekachi, who was driving a 40-foot container-laden truck at excessive speed, failed to exercise due care and control.
The truck reportedly rammed into a stationary mini truck that had been flagged down by FRSC officers for inspection.
The impact crushed an FRSC personnel who was actively discharging official duties at the scene, leading to his death.
Delivering judgment, the court held the driver responsible for reckless driving resulting in loss of life and sentenced him to life imprisonment.
Reacting to the verdict, the FRSC Corps Marshal, Shehu Mohammed, described the judgment as a strong warning to motorists, especially operators of heavy-duty vehicles.
According to him, the ruling sends “a loud and unmistakable message” that reckless driving and disregard for traffic regulations will no longer be tolerated on Nigerian roads.
Mohammed stressed that the Corps would continue to pursue justice in cases involving attacks or negligence leading to the death of its personnel, insisting that road safety enforcement officers must be protected while carrying out their lawful duties.