The Lagos State Police Command has formally arraigned Abiola Odutayo, the woman accused of causing the death of Adetunji Opayele, co-founder of the Nigerian tech company Bumpa. The tragic incident, which has sparked widespread outrage, occurred on March 4, 2025, along Ozumba Mbadiwe Road, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Adetunji Opayele, known to many as Teejay, was fatally struck by a vehicle driven by Odutayo. Reports indicate that Opayele was critically injured during the accident, and witnesses suggested that Odutayo, after striking him, allegedly failed to offer assistance, citing concerns about damaging her vehicle. This has ignited a public outcry, with many questioning the actions of the driver following the accident.
In addition to the accusations regarding her failure to assist the victim, there have been claims that hospitals in the vicinity of the incident refused to provide treatment to Opayele, allegedly citing administrative or financial concerns. This has further fueled public anger, with citizens demanding justice for the late entrepreneur.
Court Proceedings and Charges
Odutayo was arraigned on March 12, 2025, in Court 1, Tinubu, after being discharged from a hospital where she was reportedly treated for minor injuries following the incident. She is facing charges of reckless and careless driving on a public highway, leading to the death of Opayele.
The case has drawn attention not only for the circumstances surrounding the accident but also for the public outcry over what many perceive as a lack of immediate action to help the victim. Following her arraignment, Odutayo was granted bail, and the case has been adjourned until April 16, 2025, for further proceedings.
Public Outrage and Petition for Justice
The incident has provoked widespread public outrage, especially within the Nigerian tech community, where Teejay Opayele was highly regarded. His untimely death has left a void in the Nigerian startup ecosystem, as Opayele was known for his innovative work with Bumpa, a platform aimed at helping small businesses manage sales and grow digitally.
In response to the incident, a petition demanding justice for Opayele has garnered significant support, accumulating over 35,000 signatures. The petition calls for more severe charges, with many supporters suggesting that Odutayo should face charges of manslaughter, given the allegations of neglect and her failure to assist the critically injured victim.
Commitment to Transparency and Justice
The Lagos State Police Command has assured the public that it is fully committed to conducting a transparent and thorough investigation into the circumstances of the accident. Law enforcement authorities have stressed the importance of upholding justice in this case, recognizing the strong emotional and public response to the death of Opayele.
The tragic loss of Teejay Opayele highlights broader issues surrounding road safety, emergency response, and the responsibility of individuals involved in accidents. As the legal process unfolds, all eyes remain on the court case, with many hoping for justice to be served and for similar incidents to be prevented in the future.
As the case progresses, the family, friends, and colleagues of Teejay Opayele continue to mourn his loss. His contributions to the Nigerian tech space were widely acknowledged, and his death serves as a reminder of the vulnerability of individuals on the road and the moral responsibilities that come with being involved in accidents.
With public demand for justice intensifying, the Nigerian legal system will likely face increasing pressure to ensure accountability in this case. Whether or not Odutayo faces more severe charges will depend on the evidence presented in court, but the demand for justice remains clear.
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