Motorist Faces Legal Action for Assaulting OYRTMA Officer in Oyo State
IBADAN/Nigeria: The Oyo State government has commenced legal action against a motorist, Mr. Gwabo Mar, who allegedly assaulted an officer of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) while on duty. The incident occurred at the Mokola roundabout on Tuesday, where the motorist reportedly attacked Mr. Lateef Ayodeji Apesin, an OYRTMA officer, after being stopped for a traffic violation under code MTF 082, which involves picking up and dropping off passengers indiscriminately.
According to eyewitnesses, Mar struck the officer in the face and destroyed his mobile phone during the altercation. The Chairman of OYRTMA, Major Adesagba Adekoya (rtd), condemned the attack, labeling it “unacceptable and cowardly.” He affirmed that the agency would pursue all necessary legal measures to ensure justice is served, emphasizing his commitment to protecting OYRTMA officers from such acts of violence and intimidation.
In a statement, Major Adekoya vowed that the motorist would be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. The incident has elicited strong reactions from OYRTMA officials and stakeholders, who are advocating for enhanced protection for law enforcement officers in the state.
Mr. Mar was arrested and charged with assault and destruction of property. He appeared before the Magistrate Court in Mapo on Friday, where he was fined N500,000 with two sureties. The case has been adjourned until September 20, 2024.
