Nigeria: Irate Danfo driver stabs LASTMA officer over alleged traffic violation

By Zuleihat Owuiye, Mamos Nigeria

A Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) officer narrowly escaped death after being stabbed by an irate commercial driver over a traffic violation at Ojota Interchange in Lagos. The incident involved a painted Caravelle GL Volkswagen commercial bus EKY 693 YK, along Ikorodu Road.

According to LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, the driver was intercepted for operating the vehicle with its passenger door recklessly left ajar, posing a danger to lives. The driver responded with insubordination, resisted arrest, and attempted to escape, but was thwarted when the vehicle became immobilized.

In a shocking display of brutality, the driver seized a broken bottle and stabbed the officer in the fingers of his right hand, causing severe fractures and significant blood loss. The assailant fled the scene, but the vehicle was impounded.

The injured officer received emergency surgical intervention, with two fingers requiring reconstruction. The Police have launched a manhunt for the suspect.

Bakare-Oki condemned the act, stating that violence against traffic enforcement personnel will attract dire consequences. He warned commercial transport operators to comply with traffic laws, saying LASTMA will intensify enforcement operations to safeguard public safety.

The incident has sparked concerns over the safety of traffic enforcement officers and the need for drivers to respect traffic regulations.