By Sophia Afolabi
The Imo State Police Command has arrested a 30-year-old man, Dike Chibuike Micheal, over a fatal road crash allegedly caused by reckless driving and suspected street racing outside the main gate of Imo State University (IMSU) in Owerri.
The accident claimed the life of 19-year-old Chibuike Friday, an indigene of Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State while the other victim, Bright Ukwuoma, sustained injuries and is currently receiving treatment at a hospital.
According to the police, preliminary investigations indicate that the suspect, who hails from Umuolowu, Ejemekuru in Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, was driving a Lexus ES 350 with registration number KWU 766 AE at high speed while allegedly engaging in an unauthorized street racing activity when he knocked down Chibuike Friday as he attempted to cross the road.
The impact reportedly caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle, which then struck Bright Ukwuoma, leaving him injured.
Police said officers from the area command, led by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), swiftly responded to a distress call, arrested the suspect, and rescued him from an angry mob at the scene. Both victims were rushed to the hospital, where Chibuike Friday was confirmed dead. His body has since been deposited in a morgue for preservation and autopsy.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Imo State, CP Audu Garba Bosso, condemned the alleged reckless driving that led to the tragedy. He extended his condolences to the family of the deceased, wished the injured victim a speedy recovery, and assured the public that justice would be served.
The police commissioner has directed the State Traffic Department to conduct a comprehensive investigation into both the immediate and remote causes of the crash. He said the suspect would be prosecuted in accordance with the law upon the conclusion of investigations.
Bosso also urged motorists to desist from excessive speeding, reckless driving, and other traffic violations, reiterating the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property while ensuring strict enforcement of traffic laws across the state.
