The attention of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA) has been drawn to a misleading report circulating on social media platforms, particularly Facebook, alleging that OYRTMA officials were responsible for the death of a commercial tricycle rider around the University of Ibadan axis on Wednesday, August 27, 2025.
We wish to categorically state that the report is false, unfounded, and intended to tarnish the reputation of the Authority.
For the past three months, OYRTMA officials have been stationed at the University of Ibadan axis, enforcing compliance with traffic light regulations to maintain order and safety on our roads. This exercise has been made possible with the strong financial support of the Oyo State Government.
The Incident in Question
On the said date, at about 11:30 a.m., a commercial tricycle with registration number MNY 805 QU willfully violated the traffic light. The rider was flagged down but dangerously attempted to escape. He was later intercepted at the Preboye traffic light.
During enforcement, the rider attacked an officer by biting him and later feigned collapse, pretending to be dead, in an attempt to attract mob action against OYRTMA personnel. However, while officers were momentarily distracted by the crowd, the rider suddenly stood up, entered his tricycle, and sped off—before policemen from Sango Police Station arrived at the scene.
This clearly shows that no death occurred, contrary to the malicious rumors circulating online.
Unanswered Questions for Rumour Peddlers
To set the record straight, we ask:
1. Who allegedly took the rider to the hospital?
2. Which hospital was he taken to, and which doctor certified him dead?
3. Where was his supposed corpse deposited?
4. Who removed the tricycle from the scene?
5. Did the police officers who later arrived find a corpse or a tricycle?
6. Did OYRTMA officials abandon their duty post, or did they continue with their lawful duties?
These questions remain unanswered because the incident was deliberately staged by the tricycle rider to evade the consequences of his traffic violation.
Our Stand
OYRTMA remains resolute in carrying out its statutory responsibilities within the confines of the law. We will not be distracted by baseless allegations and urge members of the public to verify information before spreading unfounded speculations.
E-signed:
Major Adekoya Adesagba (Rtd.)
Chairman, OYRTMA
Oyo State ICT
August 30, 2025
