The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has condemned an attack on its official, Mr. Kosoko Razak, by a suspected commercial driver of an unpainted Suzuki Minibus with registration number AAA 693 YC at Jakande in Lekki, Lagos State.

A statement issued today by the General Manager, LASTMA, Mr. Olajide Oduyoye, said the suspect later identified as Fred Onwuche, was stopped and arrested for not using a seat belt while driving. The incident resulted in a vicious attack on the officer with a pestle. The LASTMA officer was injured.

“The brutish attack on the officer by the suspect is totally condemnable and uncalled for. The way and manner it was carried out, it was like a premeditated attempt to kill the officer. We must, therefore, send a strong signal to others like the attacker by ensuring that the culprit is punished to the full extent of the law,” Oduyoye said.

Rasaq was quickly rushed to the hospital for emergency treatment and stitching of the deep cuts on his head. Onwuche was arrested and taken to Ilasan Police Division for further investigation and prosecution.

“The law must go full circle in this case. There should be no shifting of ground or out-of-court settlement of this matter that could have thrown the Agency, colleagues and the family of Mr. Razak into mourning, if not for divine intervention,” the General Manager said.

This is not the first attack on a LASTMA official, some of who have died after being attacked at work.

Oduyoye said LASTMA will remain focused on its duties despite “intimidation” and “assault” on its personnel, adding that anyone caught harassing its officers will pay dearly for such offence as stipulated by the Law.

He implored motorists to ensure compliance with the traffic laws of Lagos State to avoid arrest, as its personnel will continue to apprehend traffic offenders and bring them to justice.