Group Calls For Retraining of EDSMA Officers to Enhance Professionalism, Ethical Conduct
By Simeon OSAJIE
A group known as ‘Bail is Free Campaign’, has urged the Edo State Traffic Management Agency (EDSTMA) to conduct regular training and retraining programmes for officers to enhance professionalism and ethical conduct.
The State Coordinator of the group, Comrade Oni Edigin disclosed this during courtesy visit on the management of the agency led by Engr. Stanley Ineghede, Managing Director, in Benin City, Edo State capital.
Briefing EDSTMA management, Comrade Oni Edigin who commended some officers for their efforts in supervising, regulating, and managing transportation activities, including private and commercial vehicle operations in Edo State, lamented the manner in which some officers are allegedly ambushing and misleading drivers with the intent of extorting them.
According to him, “Some EDSTMA officers have been observed blocking roads, leading to accidents, and failing to take responsibility. Vehicles are towed without proper notification to owners, making it difficult for them to retrieve their vehicles. There are reports of officers threatening motorist with visible and hidden recordings and general lack of professionalism, particularly among lower-ranking officers.
“EDSTMA management should organize campaigns to educate drivers and private car owners on traffic rules and regulations, provide clear notifications of restricted or no-parking tones to prevent unnecessary fines and vehicle impoundments, emphasize to officers on proper engagement with motorists to foster mutual respect and cooperation, Implement strict disciplinary measures for erring officers to uphold the integrity of the agency and Strengthen oversight mechanisms to ensure officers act within their professional responsibilities.”
To improve traffic management and enhance public trust, Comrade Edigin observed that traffic lights at strategic locations are either non-functional or malfunctioning, contributing to hold-ups and delays. Some of these locations hew stated include: Zabayo Junction/Ekenwan Road, Akenzua Junction/Airport Road, Golf Court Junction/Airport Road, Ihama junction/Airport Road (opposite the airport), Siluko Road/Ogida Street Junction, First Junction/Sakponba Road, Oguola Junction/Siluko Road, Second Junction/Uwa Road, among others.
While appreciating EDSTMA management for the opportunity to engage them Comrade Edigin believe that through collaboration, Edo State can become a model for effective traffic management, public safety, and an egalitarian society.
In his response, the Managing Director of EDSTMA, Engr. Stanley Ineghede who commended members of the group for their visit, promised to look into the observations, recommendation and advised noted by the group in other for members of the public to have confidence in the agency.
