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A Lagos State High Court sitting at the TBS Division has sentenced a truck driver, Okpara Onyekachi, to life imprisonment for causing the death of a Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) officer during an official duty.
The conviction followed a fatal road crash that occurred on November 16, 2023, at Orile Iganmu, Lagos. The court found that the driver acted with gross negligence while operating a container-laden truck at excessive speed.
How the Incident Happened
The FRSC officer, Deputy Chief Road Marshal Assistant Ajomale, was conducting a routine traffic patrol when the incident occurred. A mini truck had been flagged down for inspection and was stationary at the time.
According to court findings, Onyekachi failed to exercise due caution and rammed his truck into the stationary vehicle. The impact led to fatal injuries that claimed the officer’s life.
Court Verdict and Legal Basis
After reviewing evidence, the court ruled that the act was reckless, unlawful, and avoidable. It dismissed claims that the incident was an accident and convicted the driver of involuntary manslaughter under the Criminal Law of Lagos State 2015.
The judge subsequently handed down a life sentence.
FRSC Reacts to Judgment
The Federal Road Safety Corps described the ruling as a significant victory for justice and road safety enforcement in Nigeria. The agency stated that the judgment sends a strong warning to motorists, particularly heavy-duty vehicle operators, about the consequences of reckless driving.
The Corps also reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing justice for fallen officers and innocent road users affected by road crashes across the country.
Commitment to Road Safety
The FRSC said it will continue to strengthen enforcement efforts, support prosecutions, and work closely with relevant stakeholders to reduce dangerous driving nationwide. The agency warned that traffic violations that endanger lives will attract severe legal penalties.
