By Kelvin Ololo
A traffic enforcement officer attached to the Cross River State Traffic Management and Regulatory Agency (TRAMRA) has died following an altercation with a commercial mini-bus driver in Calabar, prompting a police investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The tragic incident reportedly occurred on Monday, 25 May 2026, around Marian Hills, Calabar, during a traffic enforcement operation aimed at maintaining order and safety on the roads.
According to preliminary information made available by the police, the suspect, identified as Godwin Ukpai Okobo, a male commercial mini-bus driver, was allegedly involved in an altercation with TRAMRA officials, which resulted in the death of Mr. Akerete Okon, a TRAMRA officer.
Sources said the officer, who was on duty at the time of the incident, sustained critical injuries during the confrontation and was rushed to the hospital, where he was later confirmed dead.
Earlier, TRAMRA, through its Public Relations Unit, described the deceased officer as unarmed and in uniform, alleging that he was attacked during a routine traffic control exercise. The agency condemned the killing, describing it as a violent assault on public officers responsible for maintaining traffic order and public safety.
TRAMRA disclosed that the matter had been reported to the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies, while calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of the suspect.
Confirming the development to journalists, the Cross River State Police Public Relations Officer ASP Sunday Eitokpah said the command was aware of the unfortunate incident and had commenced an investigation.
“The Command is aware of the unfortunate incident. Preliminary information indicates that one Godwin Ukpai Okobo, ‘m’, a commercial mini-bus driver, was involved in an altercation with officials of TRAMRA yesterday around Marian Hills, Calabar, which allegedly resulted in the death of one Mr. Akerete Okon, a TRAMRA officer, after he was rushed to the hospital,” Sunday Eitokpah said.
The Command added that investigation was ongoing to ascertain the exact circumstances surrounding the incident.
Police authorities also assured residents that a thorough and impartial investigation would be carried out, with further updates to be communicated as necessary.
However, the incident has again sparked concerns over rising violence during traffic enforcement operations, with authorities urging commercial drivers, transport unions, and members of the public to remain calm, avoid acts of violence, and cooperate with law enforcement and traffic officials.
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