KWARTMA dismisses one, demotes two personnel over alleged extortion

By Ahmed Olayinka

The Kwara State Road Traffic Management Authority (KWARTMA) has dismissed one of its personnel and demoted two others following an investigation into allegations of extortion involving motorists during the monthly environmental sanitation exercise at Geri Alimi Roundabout, Ilorin, THE PRIME NEWS reports.

According to a statement signed by the Authority’s Head of Media/Public Relations, Olawuyi Gani Olaleken, the three personnel were directed to report to the Provost Department for interrogation and investigation.

The disciplinary action followed a viral video showing three KWARTMA personnel allegedly demanding money from motorists during the sanitation exercise on Saturday, June 27, 2026.

The video generated widespread public concern, prompting the management of the Authority to launch an investigation into the conduct of the officers involved.

The Chief Executive Officer of KWARTMA, Abdullahi Suleiman Oba, said the conduct captured in the video was unacceptable and did not represent the values, operational standards or official policy of the Authority.

He reiterated KWARTMA’s zero-tolerance policy towards extortion, bribery, corruption and other forms of misconduct among its personnel.

They were subsequently invited before the Senior Staff Management Committee (SSMC) to respond to the allegations and undergo disciplinary proceedings in line with public service rules.

Following the investigation and proceedings, the three personnel were found culpable and sanctioned accordingly, with the disciplinary measures taking effect from July 9, 2026.

Under the sanctions, one personnel was dismissed from service, while two others were demoted.

Commenting on the development, Oba described the dismissal as a landmark disciplinary action in the history of KWARTMA, stressing that it demonstrated the seriousness with which the Authority views corruption, extortion and other forms of misconduct.

He said the disciplinary action would serve as a strong deterrent to other personnel and reaffirmed that KWARTMA would not tolerate any conduct capable of undermining public confidence in the Authority.

“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 stated.

The KWARTMA CEO also directed officers and men of the Authority to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, discipline and accountability in the discharge of their duties.

He warned that personnel found culpable of extortion, bribery, corruption or other unethical practices would face appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with public service regulations.

The Authority further assured members of the public that its personnel would be expected to perform their duties professionally, courteously and responsibly, while strictly adhering to the law and approved operational procedures.

KWARTMA reaffirmed its commitment to promoting road safety, protecting lives and property, ensuring orderly traffic management and providing quality service to residents of Kwara State.