A reckless driver, Kazeem Adesokan, who allegedly knocked down a one-year-old boy, was tried on Monday before an Ikeja Magistrates’ Court.
The minor identified as Abdulrahaman Alhaji reportedly died instantly as he was knocked down along Tinubu Close, Palmgroove, Ilupeju, Lagos.
The 49-year-old driver, said to be a resident of Jesuwame Street, Shibiri, Lagos is facing a two-count charge of manslaughter and reckless driving.
The prosecutor, Michael Unah told the court that the accused committed the offence around 7.30 a.m. on Tinubu Close, Palmgroove, Ilupeju, Lagos.
He said: “Adesokan drove a Toyota Hilux Pickup van with marked KRD 530 BT in a reckless and dangerous manner.
“The accused drove the pickup in a reckless manner and caused the death of a one-year-old boy simply identified as Abdulrahaman Alhaji.
“Adesokan, who reversed his pickup without checking if someone was at the back, knocked down the one-year-old boy.
“As a result of the accused’s recklessness, the boy died instantly,’’ Unah said.
He said the offence contravened Sections 18, 19 and 20 of the State Road Traffic Law.
Magistrate A. O Gbajumo, in his ruling granted the accused bail in sum of N100,000 bail with two sureties in like sum.
Gbajumo said the two sureties must be gainfully employed and should show evidence of two years’ tax payment to the Lagos State Government.
The case has been adjourned till February 27 for further hearing.