LASTMA Initiates Full-Scale Investigation into Alleged N100,000 Extortion Incident on Coastal Road
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has officially launched a comprehensive and impartial investigation into serious allegations that one of its officials extorted N100,000 from a commercial bus operator on the Coastal Road. This decisive action comes in direct response to a viral social media publication that has sparked public concern and demands for accountability.
Social Media Allegation Triggers Official Inquiry
The investigation was prompted by a post circulating widely on Facebook from the page 'Objectv Media'. In the post, an individual identified as Tosin made detailed claims that LASTMA officers were systematically arresting commercial buses along the Coastal Road and demanding a payment of N100,000 before releasing the impounded vehicles. The allegation, which has gained significant traction online, accuses the traffic management personnel of engaging in corrupt practices and abuse of their official authority.
LASTMA's Firm Response and Commitment to Integrity
In a formal statement addressing the allegations, Adebayo Taofiq, the Director of the Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department at LASTMA, emphasized that the Authority treats such claims with the utmost seriousness. He categorically stated that LASTMA operates as a disciplined, professional, and ethically guided government institution that does not tolerate any form of misconduct, abuse of office, or extortion by its personnel under any circumstances.
"The management has initiated a thorough, impartial and comprehensive investigation into the allegation. The inquiry has already begun and the culprits will face the full consequences of the law," Taofiq declared. He further reiterated LASTMA's unwavering commitment to the core principles of transparency, accountability, and maintaining the highest possible standards in public service delivery.
Call for Public Vigilance and Reporting
Director Taofiq also took the opportunity to urge members of the public to continue reporting any perceived misconduct or unethical behavior through LASTMA's official and verified channels. He reassured citizens that the Authority remains steadfastly dedicated to fostering a traffic management system built on the foundational pillars of fairness, orderliness, and respect for the rights of all road users across Lagos State.
The swift initiation of this probe underscores LASTMA's proactive stance in addressing corruption allegations and its determination to uphold public trust. The outcome of the investigation is eagerly awaited, as it will demonstrate the Authority's resolve in enforcing discipline and ethical conduct within its ranks.
