LASTMA fires 5 officials over corruption

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has taken a firm stand against corruption and misconduct among its officers. In a recent statement to TopNaija.ng, LASTMA’s Public Relations Officer, Adebayo Taofiq, confirmed the dismissal of five officers and the issuance of reprimands to two others for their involvement in corrupt practices and misconduct.

This decisive action follows the approval by the Lagos State Civil Service Commission of recommendations made by the Personnel Management Board. The board had indicted seven LASTMA officers, and their cases were reviewed in a meeting held on Tuesday, August 19, 2023. As a result, five of the officers were terminated from their positions for engaging in corrupt activities, while two others were reprimanded for absenteeism without leave.

The agency’s acting General Manager, Bakare Oki, emphasized that these disciplinary measures were in line with the rules and regulations of the Lagos State Civil Service. He stressed the importance of the public’s participation in reporting both positive and negative experiences with LASTMA officials. Oki highlighted that sharing these experiences and providing evidence of any alleged misdemeanors are crucial for the improvement of the agency’s services.

Taofiq appealed to drivers in Lagos to consistently adhere to the state’s traffic laws to avoid infractions and the consequent penalties. He assured the public that all complaints would be addressed swiftly and impartially.

In addition to the actions taken against the seven officers, Taofiq noted that 14 other LASTMA officials are still under administrative review for various allegations. He urged the driving public to comply with the Lagos State Transportation Sector Reform Law 2018, underscoring its significance in achieving a greater Lagos and fulfilling Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s objectives under the First Pillar of the THEMES Plus Development Agenda, which focuses on Traffic Management and Transportation.

LASTMA also provided various contact channels for the public to report complaints, including phone numbers and a WhatsApp number, along with a dedicated line to the Provost. Oki reassured the public that all complaints would be investigated thoroughly and impartially.

These developments reflect LASTMA’s commitment to maintaining integrity and professionalism among its officers while fostering a safer and more efficient traffic management system in Lagos State.