In a morning marked by chaos and panic, a diesel tanker ignited in flames at the Ojota inward interchange on Monday, December 4, 2023, leading to traffic disruption in the area.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) responded promptly to the emergency, dispatching personnel to the scene to manage the unfolding situation. Confirmation of the fiery incident was relayed to the public via LASTMA’s official communication channel on Twitter.

As of the current report, the cause of the explosion remains unknown, and there is an air of uncertainty surrounding the potential casualties resulting from the incident. Authorities are actively engaged in an investigation to uncover the factors that triggered the tanker to erupt in flames.

Crucially, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service played a pivotal role in containing the blaze, successfully bringing it under control to prevent further escalation. In a reassuring tweet, the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service stated, “Situation in Ojota is under control as the peddler truck conveying Diesel inward Ketu that went on flame has been extinguished.”

The collaborative efforts of LASTMA and the Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service underscore the effective response by emergency services to mitigate the impact of the incident. As investigations continue, commuters and residents are advised to exercise caution in the affected area and stay tuned for updates on the developing situation.

In a remarkable display of commitment to the welfare of his constituents, Rep Dan Amos, representing the Jema’a/Sanga Federal Constituency in Kaduna State, has spearheaded a program offering free medical surgeries to 600 individuals. The initiative, conducted in collaboration with the Graceland Health Care Development Foundation, was inaugurated in Kafanchan on Friday.

Amos, a member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), emphasized that the initiative was a fulfillment of his campaign promise to bring relief to those silently grappling with health challenges. The lawmaker acknowledged the harsh economic realities in the country, which often left vulnerable individuals struggling to cover their medical expenses.

Speaking at the inauguration, Rep Dan Amos stated, “This exercise is in line with my campaign promise to put smiles on the faces of those suffering in silence. The purpose is to show care to people who have health challenges and are unable to foot their bills due to the hardship in the country. Health is the biggest wealth in life because without it you can barely do anything.”

The free medical surgeries, estimated to cost nearly ₦100 million, covered a range of procedures, including 500 general surgeries such as fibroid and appendix removal, along with 100 eye surgeries. Dr Joseph Thot, Head of the medical team, revealed that the surgeries began the previous day, with approximately 50 already completed. Additionally, 1,000 eyeglasses were distributed to individuals with various forms of eye defects.

Rep Dan Amos emphasized that this philanthropic endeavor would become an annual event, extending beyond his tenure in office. He reaffirmed his commitment to fairness and justice for all constituents, soliciting their cooperation and support in fulfilling the mandate entrusted to him.

Commending the legislator’s efforts, the Chief of Godogodo, Rev. Habila Saidu, urged other well-meaning individuals and organizations to follow Amos’s example in providing assistance to the downtrodden.

Sen. Sunday Katung, represented by Yohanna Allah-Magani, lauded Amos for prioritizing the health of his people. Beneficiaries, expressing gratitude to the lawmaker, prayed for blessings and additional opportunities for him to continue making a positive impact in his constituency. The initiative not only addresses immediate health needs but also underscores the importance of public servants actively engaging in initiatives that directly impact the lives of their constituents.

In a determined effort to root out corruption within its ranks, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has confirmed the arraignment of 11 officers before a disciplinary panel. The officers face various charges related to corrupt practices, with one officer being found not guilty out of the 12 originally arraigned.

The acting General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Olalekan Bakare, affirmed the disciplinary proceedings in a statement released on Friday, providing insights into the agency’s commitment to upholding its rules and regulations as guided by the Lagos State Civil Service Rules.

Bakare, who also served on the disciplinary panel, disclosed that the cases were adjudicated by a panel, statutorily constituted with the presence of three permanent secretaries. The outcome saw 11 officers found guilty of corrupt practices, while one officer was exonerated.

The disciplinary panel has forwarded its recommendations to the State Civil Service Commission for ratification in accordance with public service rules. The recommended punishments range from dismissal, reduction in rank, to immediate termination of appointment from the state public service.

Addressing the public, Bakare issued a stern warning to corrupt officers within the agency, emphasizing that stiff and severe punishments would continue to be meted out to those tarnishing LASTMA’s image. He urged residents, especially the motoring public, to support the ongoing restructuring by promptly reporting errant officers through the agency’s complaints hotlines, providing proof of evidence.

Bakare emphasized, “All officers are, hereby, warned to always carry out their duties without fear or favour, but in accordance with the stipulated laws guiding the authority. Any operative caught in the process of bringing the agency or the state government into disrepute shall equally face the consequences.”

While commending LASTMA officials for their dedication, dutifulness, diligence, and professionalism, Bakare issued a warning to the motoring public against inducing traffic personnel with bribes. He highlighted that the law frowns upon both the giver and the receiver in such transactions and urged compliance to avoid prosecution.

The move to discipline corrupt officers aligns with LASTMA’s commitment to maintaining transparency, efficiency, and public trust. The agency’s resolve to root out corruption reflects broader efforts within Nigeria to instill accountability and uphold ethical standards in public service. For complaints and inquiries via its social media handles, the following social media handles were given for motorists to reach out to LASTMA management. including Instagram – ekolastma; Twitter ‘X’ – @followlastma; Facebook – ekolastma and Youtube – LastmaTV.