Kwara govt warns traffic officers against extortion, abuse of power

The Kwara State Government has warned traffic regulatory officers against monetary exploitation, abuse of power and other forms of misconduct in the discharge of their duties.

The Commissioner for Transportation, Lafia Aliyu Korasabi, gave the warning during a management meeting at his office in Ilorin on Monday.

Korasabi said the ministry was concerned about allegations circulating on social media against some officers of the Kwara State Road Traffic Management Agency, particularly claims of monetary exploitation, overbearing conduct and excessive use of power against commercial motorists, tricycle and motorcycle operators.

He directed officers deployed to traffic control points to focus on maintaining order, decongesting traffic and ensuring the free flow of vehicles.

The commissioner also stressed that enforcement against traffic offenders must be carried out within the law and in line with established procedures.

He urged members of the public to report suspected misconduct by government officers to the appropriate authorities, preferably with verifiable evidence, rather than spreading unverified allegations.

Korasabi said appropriate action would be taken against any officer found culpable, adding that the ministry would continue to enforce discipline among its personnel.

He also charged traffic officers to uphold integrity, diligence and professionalism in carrying out their duties.

The Director, Personnel, Finance and Supply of the ministry, Tajudeen Onikoko, urged heads of agencies under the ministry to strengthen monitoring and disciplinary measures among their personnel.

Onikoko said staff must remain committed to their responsibilities and maintain the professionalism required to support the state government’s transportation programmes.

The Director, Mechanical Services, Olayinka Bushari, and Director, Transport Planning and Coordination, Michael Bamidele, acknowledged the challenges faced by traffic officers and urged them to avoid conduct capable of undermining their professional integrity.

The State Chief Vehicle Inspection Officer, Isiaq Ayuba, assured that his office would continue to uphold professionalism, strengthen compliance with established standards and maintain high ethical standards in the discharge of its responsibilities.

The Ministry of Transportation said it would continue to prioritise lawful transport coordination, effective traffic management and the safety of road users across the state.