The Lagos taxi driver, Agbariko Sunday, who allegedly drove his seized car over a LASTMA official’s leg on Aug. 15, is to remain in prison custody until the official’s health improves, a magistrate has ruled.
Sunday was arraigned on a four-count charge bordering on grievous harm, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
An Ogudu Magistrates’ Court had, in a ruling, suspended hearing of the bail application of the accused until the health condition of the official was ascertained.
The driver, who drove his Nissan Primera marked FKJ 762 QX, allegedly broke the leg of the officer, Olayemi Isiaka, while trying to escape from LASTMA office in Ketu.
The official reportedly stood at the gate to prevent the driver’s escape.
Agbariko was arrested by a LASTMA officer for alleged reckless and dangerous driving and also for violating some sections of the State Traffic Law.
According to the prosecutor, Sgt. Ihiehie Lucky, the accused, 29, who lives at Iju- Ishaga, a Lagos suburb, committed the offence on Aug 15.
“Solaja was doing his job when the accused, with intent to `steal’ his impounded vehicle, drove over Solaja’s right leg, injuring him.
“The victim, now at the verge of losing his right leg, is currently hospitalised,” he said.
“The incident took place at the LASTMA office, Zone 32, Ketu.
“The car was impounded at the LASTMA office, Ketu and the keys were seized from him.
“Unknown to them, the accused had a spare key and after a while, he sneaked into the LASTMA compound to steal his vehicle,’’ he told the court.
The offences contravened Sections 166 (d), 173, 238(a) and 285(10) of the Criminal Law of Lagos State, 2011.
However, the accused denied the charges.
The Magistrate, Mrs O. Sule-Amzat, adjourned the case to Oct. 4. (NAN)