A dismissed staff member of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Shakiru Agbaje, was arrested on Thursday while performing traffic duty nine years after he was dismissed from the authority.
It was learnt that the officer was dismissed nine years ago for allegedly presenting a fake certificate during verification of staff records and other fraudulent activities.
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At the time the dismissed officer was arrested, he was allegedly wearing LASTMA uniform and controlling traffic at Mushin.
It was learnt that his arrest followed an intelligence report obtained by the Provost Unit of the Agency about his illegal activities and unauthorised traffic enforcement operations at LUTH Junction, Idi-Araba.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olajide Oduyoye, who confirmed the arrest, said the dismissed officer’s activities had brought untold hardship and terror on unsuspecting motorists and residents of Mushin and environs.
Oduyoye, who frowned at the untoward behaviour of Agabje, added that his illegal activities and those of some members of the society have caused irreparable damage to the reputation and image of the agency.
He said, “All those who have long been sacked or disengaged from the agency and who still wear LASTMA uniforms to perpetrate illegal activities will soon be caught. We urge the general public to always take note of the names of LASTMA officers they relate with. Go about your lawful activities, strictly obey and adhere to Lagos Traffic Laws and Regulations.”
The LASTMA boss also stated that the outcome of the investigation on the arrested impersonator would be made public and he will be punished in accordance with the law.