Lagos State Government denies banning LASTMA officials from arresting erring motorists
The Lagos State government has denied reports that it has banned men from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) from stopping erring motorists in the state.
Reports that traffic cops do not have the right to stop drivers who break traffic laws in the state went viral a few days ago.
However, a statement issued by the State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, said the information is false and LASTMA officials will continue to fulfill their duty to ensure free movement. of traffic and to enforce laws against violators of road traffic rules.
”The motoring public is therefore advised to ignore the fake news on some social media platforms that Lagos State Governor Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu has warned LASTMA officials not to stop no motorist.
The statement purported to have come from the Governor reads: “From now on, no LASTMA officer should stop any motorist, whether commercial or private. LASTMA’s duty is to manage traffic and not to arrest anyone. I heard a lot of complaints, any official who breaks the rule will be severely punished”, which is false and a pure fabrication.
This fake news, which was debunked several times before resurfacing on social media platforms, was apparently designed to turn the public, especially motorists, against officials of the State of Traffic Management Authority. Lagos.
For the avoidance of doubt, the State Government is not considering the removal of the power to enforce traffic laws against erring motorists, as it believes that public education and enlightenment should be supplemented by enforcement of rules and regulations to ensure common sense on our roads. ” the statement read in part
