The Imo State Police Command has arrested a 30-year-old driver, Dike Micheal, over a fatal road accident that claimed the life of a 19-year-old phone accessories trader near the main gate of Imo State University (IMSU), Owerri.
The tragic incident occurred at about 6:30 p.m. on Sunday, July 26, 2026, when the suspect, who was driving a Lexus ES 350, allegedly knocked down Chibuike Friday, a phone accessories trader from Izzi Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, while he was attempting to cross the road.
The dead Chiuike Friday
According to the police, another victim, Bright Ukwuoma, also sustained injuries after the driver reportedly lost control of the vehicle following the collision. A video of the accident has since gone viral on social media.
Preliminary investigations revealed that the suspect was allegedly participating in an illegal street race and driving at high speed when the crash occurred.
“Preliminary investigations showed that the suspect was allegedly participating in an illegal street race when he knocked down the deceased as he attempted to cross the road,” the police said.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Henry Okoye, said officers from the Orji Police Division responded swiftly to a distress call, arrested the suspect and rescued him from an angry mob at the scene.
Both victims were rushed to the hospital, where Chibuike Friday was confirmed dead, while Bright Ukwuoma is currently receiving treatment. The deceased’s body has been deposited in a morgue for preservation and autopsy.
Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner of Police in Imo State, Audu Garba Bosso, condemned the alleged reckless driving that led to the trader’s death and expressed sympathy to the bereaved family.
He also wished the injured victim a speedy recovery and assured residents that the suspect would face justice after investigations are concluded.
Bosso directed the State Traffic Department to carry out a comprehensive investigation into the immediate and remote causes of the accident and warned motorists against excessive speeding, reckless driving and other traffic violations.
The police commissioner reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting lives and property, enforcing traffic laws and ensuring the safety of residents across the state.
Source: Imo State Police Command.
