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LASTMA Condemns Brutal Assault on Officer by Commercial Driver at Ojota Interchange
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has strongly denounced a violent attack on one of its officers by a commercial bus driver at the Ojota Interchange in Lagos State. The incident, which occurred recently, involved the driver stabbing the officer’s right hand with a broken bottle, causing serious injury.
Details of the Incident
Adebayo Taofiq, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment at LASTMA, revealed in a statement dated Sunday, February 15, 2026, that the driver, operating a Volkswagen Caravelle GL commercial bus (registration EKY 693 YK), was intercepted for a blatant traffic violation. The bus was traveling along the Ojota–Ketu route with its passenger door dangerously left open while fully loaded with commuters, posing a significant risk to passengers and other road users.
When the enforcement officers attempted to arrest the driver, he resisted vehemently and tried to escape by driving onto the road median. However, the vehicle soon became immobilized, halting his escape attempt.
Violent Attack on Enforcement Officers
Frustrated by the failed escape, the driver grabbed a jagged piece of broken glass from inside the bus and aggressively attacked the officers. One officer sustained severe injuries to his right hand, including multiple fractures and heavy bleeding, necessitating emergency surgery. Two fingers required immediate reconstructive operations, and the officer remains under close medical supervision.
Following the assault, the assailant fled the scene, but the vehicle was promptly seized by LASTMA in accordance with legal procedures.
LASTMA’s Response and Ongoing Investigation
Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, General Manager of LASTMA, expressed deep outrage over the violent act, emphasizing that such aggression against traffic officials undermines lawful authority and public order. He confirmed that the police are conducting a thorough investigation, and efforts are underway to apprehend and prosecute the perpetrator to the fullest extent of the law.
Bakare-Oki also issued a stern warning to commercial transport operators to comply strictly with traffic regulations. He reiterated LASTMA’s commitment to enforcing discipline and ensuring the safety of all road users across Lagos State. The agency vows to respond decisively to any acts of defiance or violence against its personnel.
Ensuring Road Safety and Order in Lagos
LASTMA continues to prioritize the enforcement of traffic laws to maintain order and facilitate smooth traffic flow throughout the metropolis. The authority’s zero-tolerance stance on lawlessness and violent resistance is part of its broader mission to protect commuters and uphold regulatory standards.
In recent years, Lagos has seen a rise in confrontations between traffic officials and commercial drivers, with LASTMA reporting a 15% increase in assaults on its officers in 2025 compared to the previous year. This incident underscores the urgent need for enhanced security measures and public awareness campaigns to foster mutual respect and cooperation on the roads.
