The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has described the conviction and life imprisonment of a truck driver, Okpara Kingsley Onyekachi, for the death of an officer on duty as a significant milestone for justice and road safety enforcement in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Thursday night by the Corps Public Education Officer, Assistant Corps Marshal Olusegun Ogungbemide, the FRSC said the judgment was delivered on Tuesday, January 14, 2026, by the High Court of Lagos State, TBS Division, in Suit No. LD/24692C/2024, The State v. Okpara Kingsley Onyekachi.
According to the FRSC, the case stemmed from a fatal road crash that occurred on November 16, 2023, in the Orile Iganmu area of Lagos State.
The incident claimed the life of Deputy Chief Road Marshal Assistant (DCRMA) Ajomale, who was lawfully on duty during a routine traffic enforcement exercise.
The Corps explained that an FRSC patrol team had flagged down a mini truck for inspection when the defendant, who was driving a 40-foot container-laden truck at high speed, failed to exercise due care and rammed into the stationary vehicle.
The impact reportedly crushed DCRMA Ajomale, causing fatal injuries while he was actively carrying out his official duties.
Following investigations and trial, the court found the driver’s actions to be “grossly negligent, reckless, and unlawful.”
The court rejected claims that the incident was accidental and convicted the defendant of involuntary manslaughter.
He was subsequently sentenced to life imprisonment under the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2015.
Reacting to the judgment, the Corps Marshal of the FRSC, Shehu Mohammed, said the ruling sent a strong warning to motorists, particularly operators of heavy-duty vehicles, that reckless driving would not be tolerated.
“When a life is lost due to gross negligence, especially the life of an officer on lawful duty, the law will take its full course,” Mohammed said.
He added that the Corps would continue to pursue justice for fallen officers and innocent road users.
The FRSC further stated that it would intensify enforcement activities, provide support for prosecutions, and strengthen collaboration with stakeholders to curb dangerous driving practices across the country.
It warned that drivers who violate traffic regulations and endanger lives should expect severe legal consequences.
The Corps also said its management and staff honoured the memory of DCRMA Ajomale, describing his death as a reminder of the risks faced daily by road safety personnel in the course of their duties.
