A traffic enforcement officer with the Cross River State Traffic Management and Regulatory Agency (TRAMRA) has been killed after being allegedly stabbed by a commercial mini-bus driver during a routine operation in Calabar South.
Incident Details
The incident occurred around 10:00 a.m. on Monday near the Marian Hills area of Calabar. The officer, identified as Mr. Akerete Okon, was reportedly attacked while performing traffic control duties.
According to a statement from TRAMRA's Public Relations Unit, the officer was unarmed and in full official uniform when the driver allegedly stabbed him in the chest with a screwdriver without provocation.
Victim Succumbs to Injuries
The agency confirmed that Mr. Okon was rushed to a hospital for treatment but later died from the injuries sustained in the attack.
TRAMRA condemned the assault, describing it as a brutal attack on public officers tasked with maintaining order and safety on the roads.
Police Investigation Underway
The agency reported the matter to the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies, calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the suspect.
Cross River State Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, confirmed the incident. He stated that preliminary information suggests Godwin Okobo, a commercial mini-bus driver, was involved in an altercation with TRAMRA officials that led to Okon's death.
Eitokpah assured the public that investigations are ongoing to determine the full circumstances, and further updates will be provided.
Appeal for Cooperation
TRAMRA appealed to commercial drivers, transport unions, and the public to cooperate with traffic officials and avoid acts of violence. The agency warned that attacks on enforcement officers threaten public safety and law and order.
