The death of Adetunji Opayele, widely known as Teejay, has sparked outrage, with growing demands for accountability amid allegations of negligence and an attempted cover-up.
Teejay, co-founder and Chief Technical Officer of the Nigerian tech startup Bumpa, was involved in a fatal accident on March 4 along Ozumba Mbadiwe Road in Victoria Island, Lagos. Reports indicate that the 32-year-old software engineer was riding his power bike when he was struck by a vehicle allegedly driven by Biola Adams-Odutayo, a healthcare professional.
A petition calling for justice has since emerged on Change.org, urging authorities, including the Inspector-General of Police and Lagos State officials, to take decisive action. According to the petition, Adams-Odutayo, driving a car with license plate LND 418 JR, allegedly merged onto the expressway without checking for oncoming traffic, colliding with Teejay.
Eyewitnesses claim that despite wearing full safety gear, Teejay was left unconscious on the road. The petition further alleges that Adams-Odutayo remained in her vehicle, refusing to offer assistance even as bystanders pleaded with her. A companion with her reportedly stated that she “did not want blood to stain her car.”
Efforts by good Samaritans to get Teejay medical help were met with difficulties, as two hospitals allegedly refused to admit him. Eventually, he was taken to another facility, but by the time his family arrived, he had been declared dead.
It is also alleged that after Teejay’s passing, Adams-Odutayo sought medical attention for herself, claiming to be in shock, before attempting to leave the hospital. She was later arrested, but concerns have been raised over reports that she and her family have boasted about having strong connections that could influence the case.
Many have criticized the legal response, as Adams-Odutayo was reportedly charged with only reckless driving and granted bail set at N1 million with two sureties. Supporters argue that this is inadequate given the circumstances and are calling for the charges to be upgraded to manslaughter.
Teejay’s family, friends, and concerned citizens are demanding transparency in the legal proceedings, an intervention from the Lagos State Ministry of Justice to prevent any alleged cover-up, and assurances that Adams-Odutayo will remain in the country to face justice. They are also urging anyone with evidence, such as videos or eyewitness testimonies, to come forward and support the case.
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