CALABAR, NIGERIA – A commercial mini-bus driver, identified as Godwin Ukpai Okobo, has been arrested for allegedly killing a Traffic Management and Regulatory Agency (TRAMRA) officer, Mr Akerete Okon, during a violent clash in Calabar, Cross River State.
The incident reportedly occurred on Monday, May 25, 2026, at about 10:00 a.m. around the Marian Hills area in Calabar South during a routine traffic enforcement operation by officials of the agency.
According to a statement issued by TRAMRA’s Public Relations Unit, the deceased officer was allegedly attacked while carrying out his official duties. The agency said the suspect suddenly charged at the officer and stabbed him in the chest with a screwdriver during the confrontation.
TRAMRA explained that the officer was unarmed at the time of the attack and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for medical treatment. However, he later died from injuries sustained during the incident.
The agency described the incident as a tragic and devastating loss, expressing condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased officer.
“Despite efforts to save his life, our colleague succumbed to his injuries. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. His death is a devastating loss to TRAMRA and to the public he served with dedication,” the statement read.
The agency further condemned the killing, stressing that attacks on public officers performing lawful duties amount to an attack on public safety and the rule of law.
“Assaulting and killing public officers who work daily to protect lives, reduce accidents, and maintain order on our roads is a direct attack on law, order, and every citizen’s right to safety. No traffic dispute, no matter how heated, justifies murder,” the statement added.
Police Confirmation and Arrest
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson of the Cross River State Police Command, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, said preliminary investigations showed that the commercial driver was involved in the altercation that led to the death of the TRAMRA official.
“The Command is aware of the unfortunate incident. Preliminary information indicates that one Godwin Ukpai Okobo, a commercial mini-bus driver, was involved in an altercation with officials of TRAMRA around Marian Hills, Calabar,” the police spokesperson said.
“The altercation allegedly resulted in the death of one Mr Akerete Okon, a TRAMRA officer, after he was rushed to the hospital,” he added.
ASP Eitokpah further disclosed that the suspect has been arrested and is currently in police custody while investigations continue. He further assured members of the public that a proper investigation into the incident will be carried out to ensure justice is served.
