The Kwara State Road Traffic Management Authority, KWARTMA, has dismissed one of its officer and demoted two over allegations of extorting money from motorists.
KWARTMA imposed the sanctions stating that it held an investigation over the offences allegedly committed during the monthly environmental sanitation exercise, stating that the individuals were seen in a video, which has gone viral, engaging in the act, adding that the act is a disrepute on the traffic body.
The Chief Executive Officer of the agency, Abdulahi Oba, said that members of the public raised concerns over the operational standards of the body, which according the him, it maintains a zero tolerance policy for.
Oba, on Monday, added that the trio were invited to the Provost Department for Interogation and Investigation where they were found culpable of the offence, after which they were sanctioned accordingly, in a ruling which took effect from Sunday, July 9.
He uttered that the enforcement demonstrates the seriousness with which the management regards corruption, extortion and other forms of misconduct.
Oba mentioned that the dismissal would serve as a deterrent to other officers thinking of indulging in the act, urging them to imbibe the highest standards of integrity, discipline and accountability in the discharge of their duties.
He warned that any officer caught in the act would face appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with the public service rules, saying, ”Any personnel found culpable of extortion, bribery, corruption or other unethical practices will face appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with public service rules,” the agency head mentioned .
“There will be no sacred cows in our determination to maintain discipline, integrity and professionalism within KWARTMA. Any personnel found culpable of misconduct will face the appropriate disciplinary measures”, Oba warned.
The authority reassured members of the public that its personnel would continue to discharge their duties professionally, courteously and responsibly while operating within the law and approved procedures.