The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has debunked a trending social media report alleging that traffic officials, particularly LASTMA officers, have been banned from apprehending violators of traffic laws and restricted to traffic control.
A release issued by the LASTMA General Manager, Mr. Olajide Oduyoye refuted the claim that the decision emanated from a meeting between Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Executive Members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) at an unspecified date, time or venue.
Oduyoye maintained that there was no meeting between Lagos State Government and the NURTW, stressing that the 2018 Traffic Law clearly spelt out the duties of LASTMA officers, saying that it is irresponsible and mischievous for any individual to insinuate that Governor Sanwo-Olu gave directives contrary to the law.
While noting that Transportation and Traffic Management constitute a vital part of the present administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S agenda, Oduyoye recalled that the government had always emphasised the need for LASTMA officials to uphold the law, irrespective of anyone involved.
The General Manager, therefore, advised the public to ignore and disregard the fake news designed to confuse and hoodwink motorists into breaking traffic rules, noting that violators will face the sanctions prescribed by the law.
