The General Manager of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, has disclosed that the agency has sanctioned several officers for acts of indiscipline, following approval by the Lagos State Civil Service Commission.
Speaking on Thursday in Lagos, Bakare-Oki said the disciplinary actions led to the dismissal of five officers, the demotion of nine others, while the remaining affected personnel received severe warning letters.
He explained that the authority has strengthened its internal oversight mechanisms to curb unethical conduct among officers deployed on Lagos roads.
According to him, LASTMA now deploys daily monitoring teams to observe officers in the field, adding that members of the surveillance unit operate in plain clothes to discreetly track compliance with operational rules.
“This undercover monitoring, similar to a mystery shopper approach, enables us to identify officers who deviate from standard procedures. These measures are deliberately designed to curb excesses and promote professionalism,” he said.
Bakare-Oki also noted that complaints from members of the public are taken seriously, stressing that all allegations are thoroughly investigated before any disciplinary action is taken.
“We have sanctioned officers based on credible reports from the public. Due diligence is always carried out, and once an officer is found culpable, appropriate punishment follows,” he added.
He reaffirmed LASTMA’s commitment to effective traffic management, discipline, transparency, and professionalism, noting that the agency remains focused on ensuring the smooth and safe movement of people and goods across Lagos State.