LASTMA Launches Probe Over Alleged N100,000 Extortion of Bus Drivers on Lagos Coastal Road
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LAST MA) has opened an investigation into allegations that some of its officials extorted commercial bus drivers operating along the Coastal Road corridor in Lagos.
Global Mirror News gathered that the allegation emerged after a Facebook post shared by Objectv Media accused certain LASTMA operatives of arresting commercial bus drivers and demanding as much as N100,000 before releasing their vehicles.
Reacting to the allegation on Saturday April 4, LASTMA said it was treating the matter with utmost seriousness and had already commenced a full-scale investigation.
In a statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq, the Agency stressed that it does not tolerate misconduct, abuse of office or any form of extortion by its personnel.
The statement noted that the authority had ordered a thorough, impartial and comprehensive probe into the claims to determine whether any officer was involved.
“LASTMA remains a disciplined, professional and ethically guided Government Institutions that does not, under any circumstances, condone misconduct, abuse of office or extortion by any of its personnel,” the statement read.
The Agency further assured members of the public that any official found guilty after the investigation would face disciplinary action in accordance with established regulations and public service rules.
Global Mirror News reports that the controversy followed claims made by an individual identified as Tosin, who alleged that bus drivers whose vehicles were seized by officials were forced to pay N100,000 before they could recover them.
As part of the ongoing investigation, LASTMA invited Tosin to appear before the Management of the Agency at its headquarters in Oshodi and provide concrete evidence to back up the allegation.
“The Authority hereby extends an open invitation to the individual identified as Tosin to appear at the Office of the General Manager, LASTMA Headquarters, Oshodi and present concrete and verifiable evidence to substantiate his claims,” the statement added.
The traffic management Agency reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability and professionalism, while encouraging members of the public to report any misconduct by its personnel through the proper channels.
LASTMA maintained that its goal remains the creation of a traffic management system built on fairness, orderliness and respect for the rights of all road users across Lagos State.
