The General Manager of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Mr. Olajide Oduyoye, yesterday explained why his men have been absent from the roads, leading to a near chaotic traffic situation across Lagos State.
Oduyoye stated that due to the recent #EndSARS protest violence, which resulted in the looting, arson, and destruction of 12 LASTMA zonal offices and physical attacks on LASTMA officers, it, unfortunately, left physical and psychological scars on operational personnel.
He said the agency is taking stock, restructuring, and re-strategising, adding it is the reason it has only covered about 60 per cent of its beats at some strategic intersections/junctions to eliminate frictions, reduce delays and ensure better flow of traffic.
According to a statement released by the Assistant Director of Public Affairs, Filade Olumide, the LASTMA DG said: “We are aware of the traffic congestion suffered by commuters as a result of many damaged traffic light junctions, absence of BRT bus operations, illegal vehicular movements and the general lack of respect for driving ethics by some. In all, the safety of every LASTMA personnel as with all Lagos residents is equally paramount.”
![[FILES] LASTMA officials impound a vehicle at Anthony bus stop, Lagos. Photo: Eniola Daniel](https://www.afriupdate.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Lag-2-1062x598-1.jpg "LASG begins impounding of unpainted commercial vehicles 2")
Oduyoye also debunked the news purported to have been announced by Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, disapproving LASTMA officials from arresting erring motorists.
The viral news had read: “Henceforth no LASTMA officials should arrest any motorist, either commercial or private. The duty of LASTMA is to manage traffic and not to arrest anyone. I have heard a lot of complaints. Any official that violates the rule of his work will be severely dealt with.
“If at any time LASTMA officials makes attempt to arrest you or forcefully enter your car, do not argue with them. Just allow the LASTMA to enter your car and call these numbers 08129928600. 08129928550.”
Refuting this yesterday, Oduyoye stated that this is about the third time this type of story is making the rounds on social media. He recollected that the company that generated the first fake news has since apologized, retracted, and pulled down the news from the company’s site earlier this year.
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