An appeal has gone to the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwoolu, to dissolve the Apapa Special Traffic Management and Enforcement Compliance Team over bribery allegations and compromise of its duty. The team was created on October 21, 2022.
In a letter written to the governor by the Council of Maritime Transport Unions and Associations (COMTUA) and signed by its National President, Comrade Adeyinka Aroyewun, the union complained that the traffic compliance team has not been able to achieve its intended goals as its activities are marred by allegations of corruption and self-enrichment.
The union noted that initially the establishment of the team was seen as a positive step towards ensuring a seamless traffic management system in and around Apapa, as well as fostering a conducive environment for the resurgence of business activities.
However, it alleged that
the team which has Hon Sola Giwa, the special Adviser to Mr Governor as Chairman, Mr Hassan Adekoya among others as members are involved in compromising the Electronic Call Up System.
COMTUA further alleged in the letter that the team illegally move trucks to flood the road as trucks with legitimate call up documents are barred from moving to the port while priority truck even without requisite call up documents pays between #150, 000 to #200, 000 to members of the team to be on the road.
It also accused the team of creating Tags to confer authority of movement on trucks belonging to their friends and cronies.
COMTUA maintained that in connivance with state and Non state actors such as police, LASTMA, NPA officials and touts, the team extorts truckers at check points along the Port corridor.
Additionally, it accused the team of creating artificial traffic for vehicles with legitimate documents, which often make drivers to run out of scheduled time belt to attract punishment and compromises.
“It is disheartening to learn that the very individuals entrusted with the responsibility of improving traffic management and creating a cohesive system are using their positions for personal gains. Such actions not only undermine the purpose of the committee but also hinder the progress of the Apapa region,” the union said sadly.
In the light of the revelations above, COMTUA strongly advised Governor Sanwoolu to consider dissolving the Traffic Compliance Team, stating that it is crucial to address this issue swiftly and decisively to restore faith in the governance of traffic management and ensure that the interests of the public are protected.
“We were happy to receive you in Apapa on 28th December, 2020. Your pronouncement on the takeover of traffic management from the Presidential Task Team on the decongestion of Apapa gridlock and assurances to ensure a traffic free Apapa has not been fulfilled and we doubt if these crop of personnel can ever do any good to this administration and your image in this regard.
“I would also like to propose that alternative measures be put in place to address the existing traffic challenges in Apapa and promote business activities in the region. This could involve a comprehensive review of existing traffic management strategies, increased enforcement of traffic regulations, and the implementation of technology-driven solutions to streamline operations.
“By taking prompt action, you will not only demonstrate your commitment to good governance and accountability but also reaffirm your dedication to the welfare and development of Lagos State. The people of Apapa, and indeed the entire state, will greatly appreciate your efforts in rectifying this situation and restoring the integrity of traffic management in the area,” the union President advised in the letter.