14 LASTMA officials to face disciplinary panel over extortion

Across Lagos State, 14 members of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority(LASTMA) were caught extorting money from motorists and are set to face a disciplinary panel.

The agency’s Public Relations Officer(PRO), Adebayo Taofiq, disclosed this in a statement made available on Sunday.

According to the statement, the 14 male officials include 11 officials on the senior cadre and three junior officials.

Taofiq quoted the agency’s General Manager, Mr Bolaji Oreagba, as saying that the cases against them had been investigated and that the next phase was for them to face the panel. 

He added that to get rid of the individuals tarnishing the agency’s reputation, the agency would continue to mete out severe punishment on officers who act contrary to the law.

He also cautioned the public to stop bribing LASTMA officials.

 The statement partly read, “The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Bolaji Oreagba, disclosed that these affected officers whose cases have been investigated would be facing a government disciplinary committee known as the Personnel Management Board which would adjudicate their cases in line with the Public Service Rules.

 “According to Mr Oreagba, the 14 male officers (11 seniors and three juniors) were caught at different locations across the state extorting money (bribes) from motorists.

 “He said the agency would continue to mete out stiff and severe punishment on officers and men in its efforts to weed the agency of a few bad elements tarnishing its image.

 “We thereby call on residents, especially the motoring public, to support us by promptly reporting any errant officers at the nearest LASTMA offices or use any of the agency’s complaints hotlines with proof of evidence.”