Lagos Drivers Sentenced to Jail for Mob Assault on LASTMA Officials.

A Lagos Mobile Court has sentenced two individuals to three months’ imprisonment for launching a violent and coordinated mob attack on operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).

The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, revealed this in a statement issued on Wednesday in Lagos. The statement was signed by Mr. Taofiq Adebayo, Director of the Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department.

According to Bakare-Oki, the offenders—commercial bus drivers Mohammed Musa and Muhammed Nasara—led the mob assault against LASTMA officials while they were carrying out their lawful duties.

“The attackers were apprehended following a brazen and unprovoked assault that occurred on April 7, in the vicinity of LASTMA Central District (Zone 9, Victoria Island) located in the Victoria Island/Lekki corridor of Lagos.

“The unfortunate incident was triggered by the legitimate apprehension of a white commercial minibus SMK 742 YJ (korope) by LASTMA officials for obstruction-related traffic infractions 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.