LASTMA convicts 11 Officers, exonerates (1) of corrupt practices

By Abiodun OBA

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has found 11 Officers guilty of corrupt practices levied against them, with only one (1) Officer exonerated.

According to a statement signed by LASTMA spokesperson, Adebayo Taofiq, the twelve officers were arraigned for various offenses bothering on corrupt practices and absenteeism in line with the extant rules as guided by the Lagos State Civil Service Rules and Regulations.

Taofiq explained that eleven of the operatives were indicted as the panel’s final reports recommended dismissal, reduction in rank and compulsory retirement.

“The Acting General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Bakare Oki Olalekan disclosed that the disciplinary panel which was statutorily constituted with three (3) Permanent Secretaries in attendance adjudicated cases of corrupt practices levied against these 12 officers,” Taofiq said.

“The panel has in turn forwarded their recommendations to the State Civil Service Commission for ratification in line with the Public Service Rules.

“Mr. Oki confirmed that the panel recommended various punishment ranging from dismissal, reduction in rank and immediate termination of appointment from the State Public Service.”

Oki who was equally part of disciplinary panel read ‘Riot Acts’ to all Comptrollers, Commanders and Zebras of the Agency and maintained that stiff and severe punishment would continue to be meted on corrupt officers and men.

He further warned that any operative caught in the process of bringing the agency or the Lagos State Government into disrepute shall equally face the consequence.

While commending LASTMA officials for their dedication, dutifulness, diligence and professionalism, Oki warned the motoring public to stop inducing traffic personnel with bribes.

He warned them that this in order to avoid been prosecuted as the law frowned on both the ‘giver and the receiver’.

Taofiq added that it is a strong effort on the part of the Acting General Manager of LASTMA to weed the agency of few bad elements tarnishing its image.

“We hereby call on residents especially motoring public to support the Agency in the on-going restructuring by promptly reporting any errant Officers via any of the Agency’s complaints hotlines (08100565860, 08129928503, 08129928515 & 08129928597) with proof of evidence,” he said.

Oki also warned all officers of the agency to always carry out their duties without fear or favour in accordance with the stipulated laws guiding the authority.