LASTMA Probes Alleged Extortion Of Commercial Driver On Coastal Road

OLORUNDARE ENIMOLA, Lagos

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has commenced a full-scale investigation into allegations that its officers extorted ₦100,000 from commercial bus drivers along Coastal Road in Lagos.

The allegation, which surfaced in a social media post by Objectv Media, was reportedly made by an individual identified as Tosin. He claimed that, beginning from an unspecified Monday,

LASTMA officials arrested commercial buses operating on the Coastal Road and demanded ₦100,000 from drivers before releasing their vehicles.

Reacting to the claims, LASTMA, in a statement issued by its Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq, said the agency takes the allegation seriously and does not condone any form of misconduct or extortion by its personnel.

The authority described itself as a disciplined and professional institution committed to ethical standards, stressing that any officer found culpable would face strict disciplinary action in line with established regulations.

According to the statement, a thorough and impartial investigation has already commenced. The agency assured the public that appropriate sanctions would be applied if the allegations are substantiated.

As part of the probe, LASTMA invited the complainant, Tosin, to appear at the Office of the General Manager at its headquarters in Oshodi to provide verifiable evidence to support the claims.

The agency reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability and quality service delivery, urging members of the public to report any cases of misconduct through official and verified channels.

LASTMA added that it remains focused on maintaining an orderly traffic system while upholding the rights of all road users.