Lagos driver sets self, LASTMA officer, bus on fire

A commercial bus driver who has not yet been recognised is accused of setting fire to his vehicle, himself, and a Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) official. 

According to reports, the motorist was trying to avoid being arrested for a traffic infraction. 

The event occurred on Tuesday morning, according to Olalekan Bakare-Oki, General Manager of LASTMA, who verified it.

Bakare-Oki stated: “The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, has been made aware of a distressing video showing the driver of a Volkswagen T4 commercial bus, license plate LSD 355 CK, setting both his vehicle and LASTMA officers ablaze in a brazen attempt to evade arrest.

“This shocking incident happened on Tuesday, November 5, 2024, when the driver resisted arrest with extreme aggression by LASTMA officials.

“The vehicle had been intercepted for violating traffic regulations in the Cele inward Mile-2 area.

“In the course of arrest, the driver and his conductor erupted into a frenzy, resorting to pouring petrol on LASTMA personnel and engaging in hostile confrontations and physical attacks against officers present.

“The injured LASTMA officer, who sustained severe burns, was immediately transported to a nearby hospital for urgent medical treatment.

“LASTMA reiterates its unwavering commitment to preserving order and ensuring the safety of Lagos roads, as stipulated in the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018.”

However, he emphasised that all drivers, whether commercial or otherwise, should adhere to all traffic laws and respect the authority of LASTMA staff.

Source