A 30-year-old man has been arrested by the Imo State Police Command after allegedly driving recklessly and killing a 19-year-old pedestrian in front of the Imo State University (IMSU) gate in Owerri on Sunday, July 26, 2026.
The suspect, Dike Chibuike Michael, from Umuolowu, Ejemekuru, Oguta Local Government Area of Imo State, was apprehended following a fatal road traffic accident that occurred at approximately 6:30 p.m.
The victim, Chibuike Friday, 19, from Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, was struck while attempting to cross the road at the IMSU front gate and was later confirmed dead at the hospital. A second person, Bright Ukwuoma, sustained injuries in the same incident and is currently receiving treatment.
The command’s spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye, said preliminary investigations revealed that Michael was driving a Lexus ES 350 saloon car with registration number KWU 766 AE at excessive speed and was allegedly engaged in unauthorised street racing at the time of the crash.
“The suspect was driving at excessive speed and was allegedly engaged in an unauthorized street racing activity at the IMSU front gate when he struck Chibuike Friday, who was attempting to cross the road. The impact caused the driver to lose control of the vehicle, which subsequently struck Bright Ukwuoma, inflicting injuries on him,” the statement read.
Officers from the Orji Division responded swiftly to a distress call and arrested Michael at the scene, rescuing him from an angry mob that had gathered. The body of the deceased has since been deposited in the morgue for preservation and autopsy.
The Commissioner of Police, Imo State Command, CP Audu Garba Bosso, condemned the incident and directed the State Traffic Department to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the immediate and remote causes of the crash.
He assured the public that Michael would be prosecuted in accordance with the law upon conclusion of the investigation, and used the opportunity to warn motorists against speeding, reckless driving and other traffic violations.
“The Commissioner also warned motorists against excessive speeding, reckless driving, and other traffic violations. He urged all road users to obey traffic laws and reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property,” the statement added.
Digital Operations Manager at The Students Forum Nigeria.
