Lagos disburses ₦40m to families of fallen LASTMA officers

The Lagos State Government has released a total of ₦40 million as financial support to families of personnel of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) who lost their lives while on active duty.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa, made this known on Wednesday during LASTMA’s financial presentation ceremony organised in honour of its fallen officers.

According to Giwa, the gesture followed LASTMA’s 25th anniversary celebration on July 15, 2025, when the Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, acknowledged the hazards and sacrifices faced daily by traffic officers.

He explained that the governor subsequently approved ₦2 million each for the families of personnel who died in service, as a mark of recognition for their courage and dedication.

“The governor noted that in traffic management, the greatest victories are often unseen and the sacrifices largely unsung,” Giwa said. “The support is not a payment for their loss, because no amount can equal the value of a human life, but a tangible expression of the state’s appreciation for their service, courage and sacrifice.”

He added that the disbursement was carried out after all necessary documentation and due process were completed.

Also speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transportation, Mr. Olawale Musa, described the deceased officers as heroes who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.

Musa disclosed that 17 LASTMA officers died last year alone, underscoring the dangers traffic officials face on Lagos roads. He recalled incidents where officers were attacked with stones in Apapa and another crushed by a trailer, stressing the need for greater protection and recognition for them.

“Many people overlook the daily challenges these officers face and only speak out when there is a complaint. They are human beings who risk their lives every day,” he said.

Earlier, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said the ceremony was organised to honour the memories of the deceased officers and show solidarity with their families.

He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to improving road safety and preventing similar tragedies in the future.

Reports indicated that 20 families benefited from the financial support.