A Lagos State High Court has sentenced a truck driver to life imprisonment for causing the death of a Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) marshal in a tragic traffic accident. The ruling highlights Nigeria’s strict enforcement of road safety laws and serves as a warning against reckless driving.
The incident occurred on 16 November 2023 in the Orile‑Iganmu area of Lagos, when the driver, identified as Okpara Kingsley Onyekachi, was operating a 40‑feet container truck at excessive speed. He rammed into a stationary mini truck that had been stopped by an FRSC patrol team conducting routine enforcement. The impact crushed Deputy Chief Road Marshal Assistant Ajomale, who died instantly from his injuries.
During the trial, the court found Onyekachi guilty of involuntary manslaughter, describing his actions as grossly negligent, reckless, and unlawful. His defense that the collision was accidental was rejected, and he was sentenced under the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015.
The FRSC hailed the verdict as a landmark victory for justice and road safety, emphasizing that the sentence sends a strong message to all motorists, particularly operators of heavy-duty vehicles, that reckless driving will not be tolerated. The Corps reiterated its commitment to enforcing traffic regulations and reducing road fatalities nationwide.
This case underscores ongoing concerns over road safety in Nigeria, where speeding and reckless driving remain leading causes of accidents and deaths on major roads.
Post a Comment