Inspector Mercy Bassey, a female police officer, died after a hit-and-run driver struck her at the Adekunle Intersection on the Third Mainland Bridge in Lagos State. The incident occurred on Tuesday, September 29, 2026, while she was performing route-lining duties ahead of President Bola Tinubu's arrival in the state.
Details of the Incident on Third Mainland Bridge
According to a security source who spoke to The Punch on condition of anonymity, Bassey was attached to the Ikotun Divisional Police Station and was deployed as part of security arrangements for the presidential movement. The collision happened at around 2:30 pm when a black Toyota Highlander SUV struck the officer as she crossed the bridge at the inward Lagos Island end.
The driver did not stop after the collision. "The vehicle sped off after hitting the officer. The vehicle was chased by patrolmen on duty but escaped to an unknown destination," the source said.
Medical Response and Investigation
Bassey was rushed to the General Hospital in Ebute Metta, where she later died while awaiting treatment. The source added that her remains would be transferred to a morgue in Yaba for preservation.
The registration number of the vehicle and the identity of its driver remained unknown as of the time the incident was reported. Investigators were working to obtain CCTV footage from cameras in the area to help track down the vehicle.
Police Confirm Incident but Decline Further Comment
Lagos State Police Command spokesperson Abimbola Adebisi confirmed that the incident took place but declined to give further details. "We don't want to comment on the matter at the moment," Adebisi said.
President Tinubu returned to Nigeria after a working vacation that took him through the United Kingdom and France.
Related Incident in Osun State
In a separate incident, Osun State Police are seeking a fugitive motorist involved in a fatal hit-and-run that killed two police officers. An investigation has been launched as the Lexus vehicle and motorcycle from the accident were recovered. The incident raised urgent concerns over reckless driving and road safety enforcement in Osun State.
