Lagos fires two CBD officers for extortion, prosecutes 833 vehicles for traffic offences in one year
By Sodiq Adelakun
The Lagos State Government has taken decisive action against corruption and traffic offences in the Central Business Districts (CBD).
According to Hon. Bola Lawal-Olumegbon, Special Adviser to the Governor on CBD, two officers were dismissed for extorting traders within the past year.
He made this disclosure on Monday during the ongoing ministerial press briefing stating Lagos government’s commitment to tackling corruption and maintaining a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
He revealed that in addition, a total of 833 vehicles and 49 tricycles were arrested and prosecuted for various traffic offences within the CBD during the same period.
Lawal-Olumegbon emphasised that the agency is not a revenue-generating body, and the dismissed officers were found to have collected money from traders, contrary to the agency’s purpose.
Lawal-Olumegbon said, “Central Business District has already commenced full operations in the Ikeja Business District with the deployment of enforcement officers to control traffic at strategic points.
“As part of programme to introduce and sensitise the Ikeja environs of the commencement of full operations, the office engages in continuous public enlightenment and sensitisation within the Ikeja CBD and we regularly hold series of consultative meetings with stakeholders to make the office operations within the axis seamless.
“Plans are on the way to extend operations to Apapa and other places designed to be the Central Business District such as Surulere and Eti-Osa.”
She added, “During the period under review, a total of 833 vehicles and 49 tricycles were arrested and prosecuted accordingly for various traffic offences ranging from illegal parking, illegal U-turn, obstruction, one-way and obstruction of traffic.
“Four persons arrested and prosecuted for assaulting our operatives at CBD in the discharge of their duties. Two CBD operatives disciplined by dismissal for extortion.”
While commenting on the fire incident that occurred at Lagos Island where billions of naira were lost, she said, “the government understands the pain and uncertainty that many of you are feeling right now, and I want you to know that you are not alone.
“The government is here to support you, every step of the way as we rebuild and recover from this disaster.
“I want to assure you that the government is fully committed to ensuring the safety and integrity of our buildings in the affected area. That is why we have initiated rigorous integrity tests and in some cases, the necessary decision to pull down buildings that pose a risk to public safety.
“While this may result in temporary suspension of commercial activities, please understand that it is being done with the utmost concern for public safety and well-being.”
