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We Are Prosecuting LASTMA Official To Strengthen Law And Order – LASG

Sep 10, 2008 - Lagos State Government on Wednesday reiterated that its decision to prosecute an official of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) Mr Andrew Olatunji over bribery allegation was borne of the resolve of the State to strengthen law and order.

This resolve was stated by the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Supo Sasore (SAN) who spoke with newsmen after the case of bribery and extortion levelled against the LASTMA operative was adjourned to Wednesday September 17, 2008 by Chief Magistrate Oluwayemi Isaac of Court One, Ikeja.

Mr. Sasore said the case is of prime importance to the state because while LASTMA is doing a very good job of regulating traffic, some few bad eggs are trying to drag down the full benefit of the performance.

The Attorney General added that it is very important that the full weight of the law be applied to prosecute people who flout the law especially when such acts can be a disparaging conduct on the performance of LASTMA.

Mr. Sasore said Lagos State has no desire of seeking the conviction of anybody either in a hurry or at all cost, but would only do so according to the law while ensuring that the law takes its course irrespective of the Standing of the person in the society.

He said taking of bribe and inducement for which the LASTMA operative was being charged constitute a criminal offence with prescribed stiff penalties adding that it is a crime which everyone needs to take very serious.

He enjoined counsel to always act as officers of the law and ensure that justice is delivered in a timely, responsible and truthful manner and way.

The accused person, Mr. Andrew was charged last week with collecting N10, 000 bribe from a motorist who contravened traffic regulation in order to pervert the cause of justice.