Police confirms arraigning suspect Abiola Odutayo over death of Bumpa co-founder in Lagos

The Lagos State Police Command has arraigned Abiola Odutayo in connection with the death of Adetunji Opayele, co-founder of Bumpa, popularly known as Teejay. 

The police confirmed that Odutayo was arraigned on March 12, 2025, at Court 1, Tinubu, after being discharged from the hospital. She faces charges of reckless and careless driving on a public highway, leading to the death of Opayele.

The incident, which occurred on March 4, 2025, has sparked widespread public concern, with over 35,000 Nigerians signing a petition demanding justice. Many have called for more severe charges, including manslaughter, rather than reckless driving.

Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer Benjamin Hundeyin confirmed the development in a statement on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “We #LagosPoliceNG acknowledge public concerns regarding the tragic accident that claimed the life of Adetunji Opayele (Teejay) on March 4, 2025. We extend our deepest sympathies to his family, friends, and all who have been affected by this loss.

“We can confirm that following a thorough investigation, Abiola Odutayo ‘f’ was arraigned in Court 1, Tinubu on March 12, 2025, after she was discharged from hospital, for driving on a ‘public highway in a reckless and careless manner without due care and attention to other road users and caus[ing] the death of one Tunji Opayele ‘m’ aged 32 and thereby committed an offence…’

“The court granted her bail and adjourned the case till April 16, 2025. The Lagos State Police Command remains committed to transparency, fairness, and justice.”

The incident has drawn outrage, with reports that the driver, Biola Adams-Odutayo, allegedly hesitated to help the critically injured Teejay, citing concerns about staining her car. Witnesses said bystanders struggled to secure medical assistance, as several hospitals reportedly refused treatment. Opayele was eventually pronounced dead after hours of unsuccessful attempts to obtain urgent medical care.