Driver hits and kills VIO officer during routine check

An officer from the Ondo State Vehicle Inspection Service was hit by a vehicle on Friday. This happened while he was trying to stop the driver for a routine check along Hospital Road in Akure, the capital of Ondo State.

The officer, Adedeji Sesan, 35, was on duty opposite Mega Primary School in Akure with his colleagues around 9 a.m. when the accident took place.

Jimoh Abayomi, the spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, confirmed in a statement that the driver has been arrested. Mr Sesan’s body has been taken to the morgue.

According to Mr Abayomi, early information shows that a white Mitsubishi van with registration number AGL 992 XX was involved. The driver, Ayoade Idowu, 37, lives on Gbogi Street in Akure.

The victim was on a routine patrol with his team when he tried to stop the vehicle for an inspection of its documents. "The driver initially stopped but allegedly drove off when asked to produce the relevant documents, hitting the VIO official in the process," he said.

Mr Sesan suffered serious head injuries and was quickly taken to the Federal University of Technology Akure (FUTA) Teaching Hospital. Sadly, the doctor confirmed he had died.

His body has been placed in the hospital mortuary for preservation and an autopsy. "The driver has been arrested and detained, while preliminary investigations are ongoing," Mr Abayomi added.

Police officers have visited the scene to start their investigations. The case file will be sent to the Motor Traffic Division for further action.

Mr Abayomi extended condolences to the family, colleagues, and friends of the deceased. He assured that a thorough investigation will be carried out. Appropriate legal actions will follow as required by law.

He also urged drivers to be patient, obey traffic rules, and cooperate with traffic enforcement officials. "No road user should endanger the life of another in an attempt to evade routine checks or traffic regulations," he warned.

"The Ondo State Police Command is committed to ensuring road safety, protecting lives and property, and maintaining law and order across the state."