LASTMA official set on fire by bus driver, conductor in Lagos

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has reported a shocking incident involving one of its officials, who was brutally attacked by a commercial bus driver and his assistant, commonly referred to as a ‘Conductor.’

The assault occurred in the Cele area, near the Mile 2 axis of Lagos, raising serious concerns about the safety of traffic officers in the city.

According to reports, the attack left the officer with severe injuries after the assailants allegedly doused him in petrol and set him on fire while attempting to evade arrest for a traffic violation.

This act of violence underscores a disturbing trend of aggression against traffic management officials, who are tasked with maintaining order on Lagos roads.

Adebayo Taofiq, LASTMA’s Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment, confirmed the incident in a statement to journalists on Tuesday.

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He noted that the attack was captured in a distressing video, which shows the driver of a Volkswagen T4 bus, bearing the license plate LSD 355 CK, pouring petrol on the LASTMA personnel during a violent confrontation.

According to him, “The altercation occurred Tuesday, November 5, 2024, after LASTMA officials intercepted the vehicle for violating traffic regulations near Cele, heading toward Mile 2.

“The vehicle had been intercepted for violating traffic regulations in the Cele inward Mile 2 area.

“In the course of the arrest, the driver and his conductor erupted into a frenzy, resorting to pouring petrol on LASTMA personnel and engaging in hostile confrontations and physical attacks against officers present.”

Adebayo added that the injured LASTMA officer, who sustained severe burns, was immediately transported to a nearby hospital for urgent medical treatment.

He, however, said that, “LASTMA reiterates its unwavering commitment to preserving order and ensuring the safety of Lagos roads, as stipulated in the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018.”

He added that the agency strongly urged all commercial and other drivers to comply fully with traffic regulations and respect the authority of LASTMA personnel, stressing that LASTMA will not condone any form of violence or intimidation and will take firm and decisive action against the culprits.

(Leadership)