A professor of Biochemical Toxicology at the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta (FUNAAB), Oladipo Ademuyiwa, has died after being struck by a hit-and-run driver along the newly rehabilitated Kemta-Somorin road in Ogun State.
The tragic incident, which occurred on Sunday, has thrown residents of Ajebo Road Housing Estate, Kemta, Abeokuta, into mourning.
The professor, who was in his early 60s, had just alighted from a cab and was attempting to cross the road when a speeding driver hit him and fled the scene.
Confirming the incident, Dr. Ayo Ajasa, Chairman of the Ajebo Road Housing Estate Community Development Association (CDA), described the professor’s death as a devastating loss to the academic community and the nation.
“This unfortunate incident has once again highlighted the urgent need for safety measures on this road,” Ajasa stated. “Prof. Ademuyiwa was a distinguished scholar, and his untimely death is a huge loss to his family, students, and the entire nation.”
Ajasa revealed that within 24 hours of the professor’s death, another accident occurred on the same road, reinforcing concerns about the dangers posed by reckless driving.
He called on the state government to take immediate action by installing speed breakers, lorry barriers, and visible traffic signs to caution motorists.
“We urge the authorities to prioritize the safety of residents by implementing necessary road safety measures. Stricter law enforcement is also needed to curb excessive speeding and prevent further tragedies,” he added.
Ajasa also appealed to civil society organizations, the media, and well-meaning Nigerians to amplify the call for safer roads and justice for the late professor.
