Obey driving rules or get dismissed – LAWMA boss warns truck drivers
By Sodiq Adelakun
The Managing Director/CEO of Lagos Waste Management Authority (LAWMA), Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegesin on Tuesday issued a directive to truck drivers within the agency’s fleet to adhere strictly to safe driving regulations or face severe consequences, including possible dismissal.
Dr. Gbadegesin emphasised the critical importance of abiding by road safety protocols, highlighting specific infractions such as failure to use seat belts, driving under the influence of alcohol, speeding, and reckless behavior on highways.
He also warned against overloading vehicles, disregarding safety equipment, possessing invalid driver’s licenses, and allowing waste handlers to hang onto moving trucks, all of which pose serious risks of causing accidents.
The CEO announced a range of stringent penalties, including immediate dismissal, prosecution, work suspension, forfeiture of salaries and allowances, and refusal of medical bill payments in the event of an accident, depending on the severity of the violation.
The message from LAWMA’s leadership is clear: safety on the roads is non-negotiable, and any deviation from prescribed rules will be met with swift and severe repercussions.
He said, “Henceforth, reckless road behaviour and breach of safe driving rules and regulations will attract very stiff penalties, including the possibility of dismissal, among other sanctions.
“The safety of our drivers, residents and other road users remains our priority in the course of daily operations. We are working relentlessly to ensure that our truck drivers discharge their duties in a manner that will not endanger the lives of people in the state.”
He disclosed that each waste evacuation truck operated by LAWMA, will now prominently display phone numbers, allowing residents to promptly report instances of reckless driving or dangerous behaviour witnessed on the roads.
Gbadegesin stressed the significance of community involvement in maintaining road safety standards, adding that by empowering residents to report incidents, the collective effort could promote safer road practices.
He assured the public that all reports received would be thoroughly investigated, and any erring truck drivers would face appropriate sanctions.
The LAWMA CEO reiterated the organization’s dedication to maintaining top-notch professionalism in waste management endeavours. He emphasised LAWMA’s unwavering resolve in guaranteeing a cleaner and healthier environment for all residents of Lagos.
Furthermore, he urged citizens to make use of LAWMA’s toll-free numbers or contact the numbers displayed on waste evacuation vehicles to report any waste management issues or instances of road safety violations by drivers.
