Drivers get three months jail for attack on LASTMA officials

A Lagos Mobile Court has sentenced two persons to three months custodial imprisonment for orchestrating a violent and coordinated mob attack on the operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA.

The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, in a statement made available to the News Agency of Nigeria disclosed that the duo, commercial bus drivers, Mohammed Musa and Muhammed Nasara, orchestrated the mob attack on LASTMA officials performing their lawful duties.

They were arrested following an incident on April 7 near LASTMA Central District in the Victoria Island/Lekki area of Lagos.

The incident occurred when LASTMA officials apprehended a white commercial minibus SMK 742 YJ (korope) for traffic violations related to obstruction around the Mekwen Bridge, inward Flag House.

“In a blatant act of defiance, the vehicle’s driver mobilised a group of fellow commercial transport operators, who arrived at the scene in two additional minibuses (GGE 995 YF) and unleashed a premeditated and vicious attack on the LASTMA officials.

“The rapid and tactical intervention of security personnel led to the apprehension of two suspects, who were immediately arraigned before the Lagos Mobile Court at Oshodi on April 8,” he said.

Bakare-Oki said the court verdict would serve as a necessary deterrent to unruly elements within the motoring public, especially commercial vehicle operators who habitually undermine traffic regulations.

“The authority unequivocally condemns this despicable and unlawful act of aggression.
“LASTMA reiterates its unwavering commitment to a zero-tolerance policy on attacks against its officials.

“LASTMA remains steadfast in discharging its statutory mandate of enforcing traffic laws and preserving the safety and orderly movement of all road users throughout Lagos State,” he said.

NAN