The Oyo State Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) has condemned the reckless driving of a tricycle operator whose one-way movement and excessive speed led to a serious accident in Ibadan, leaving a pedestrian, Oladayo Adisa, severely injured.
Confirming the incident on Sunday, the Chairman of OYRTMA, Major Adekoya Adesagba (rtd.), said the accident occurred on Thursday morning near a petrol station, as the victim was attempting to cross the road.
He criticized the tricycle rider for violating traffic laws by driving against traffic, an action he described as not only illegal but life-threatening.
Adesagba disclosed that the victim sustained serious facial injuries and is currently receiving treatment.
Expressing deep concern, he decried the growing disregard for traffic regulations, particularly the rising trend of one-way driving, which he described as a dangerous menace to public safety.
He urged road users to obey traffic laws to prevent avoidable tragedies, emphasizing that the state government remains committed to enforcing road safety rules and protecting lives.
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He said, “Mr. Adisa was caught off guard and sustained severe injuries due to the carelessness of the tricycle rider. The government will not tolerate this reckless behavior. We will continue to enforce traffic regulations rigorously to ensure the safety of all road users.”
According to eyewitnesses, the rider showed no remorse and claimed he lacked the funds to assist the injured man.
The manager of the petrol station and OYRTMA officers who arrived promptly at the scene, rushed Mr. Adisa to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention.
Upon regaining consciousness, Mr. Adisa commended the prompt response of the OYRTMA officers and the station manager. He remarked, “If OYRTMA catches any rider taking one way, they should not release them until they are taken to court.”
In a separate incident, a TVS motorcycle with registration number LUY 306 UT was involved in a tragic accident at Agbarigo, Mokola, Ibadan, leading to one fatality and two injuries.
OYRTMA’s rescue team promptly transported the victims to the Oyo State Hospital at Ring Road, Ibadan.
During the rescue operation, OYRTMA officials recovered the victims’ personal belongings, including a bag containing a significant amount of money, which was later returned to the family demonstrating the agency’s commitment to integrity and public service.
Major Adesagba praised the state government for its ongoing efforts to enhance road safety and reduce traffic-related hazards.
He said, “We appreciate the government’s dedication to protecting lives and property. OYRTMA remains fully committed to supporting these initiatives and ensuring that traffic violators are held accountable.”
He concluded by urging the public to cooperate with traffic officers and strictly adhere to traffic laws to avoid further tragedies.
“Together, through shared responsibility and collaboration, we can make our roads safer for all,” he stated.