The Delta State Traffic Management Authority (DESTMA) has expressed concern over what it described as a rising wave of attacks on its personnel and the circulation of misleading content on social media, warning that individuals responsible for spreading false reports will be prosecuted.
The warning was given in Asaba during a press briefing addressed by the Director-General of the agency, Hon. Benjamin Okiemute, who restated DESTMA’s focus on enforcing traffic laws, improving road safety, and ensuring order on roads across Delta State.
Hon. Okiemute said the agency was created to regulate vehicular movement, enforce traffic regulations, and encourage responsible driving habits on both federal and state roads within the state.
He added that since the commencement of full operations in April 2016, following its establishment in 2013, DESTMA has continued to strengthen its institutional framework, refine enforcement methods, and expand its operational reach to meet increasing traffic challenges.
According to him, the agency has established several specialised units, including the Marshal Unit, Provost Unit, Intelligence Unit, and Bands Unit, all designed to improve coordination, discipline, and operational efficiency.
He explained that while the Marshal Unit focuses on frontline enforcement across major traffic corridors, the Provost Unit ensures discipline and professional conduct among officers.
The Intelligence Unit, he said, supports data collection and traffic analysis, while the Bands Unit handles ceremonial responsibilities during official government functions.
Hon. Okiemute also appreciated residents for their cooperation, noting that growing compliance with traffic regulations has helped improve traffic flow and reduce congestion in parts of the state.
However, he raised alarm over what the agency described as dangerous conduct by some motorists during enforcement exercises, particularly cases where drivers attempt to flee with officers still inside their vehicles.
He warned that such actions pose serious risks to life and safety, not only for officers but also for passengers and other road users.
The agency referenced a recent incident on May 21, 2026, along the Effurun axis involving a Toyota Highlander SUV allegedly stopped for a traffic violation.
According to DESTMA, Officer Wisoro entered the vehicle in line with standard procedure to ensure compliance and direct the driver to park properly.
It stated that the driver allegedly panicked upon sighting additional enforcement officers and sped off with the officer still inside the vehicle.
The agency further explained that the driver later lost control of the vehicle and crashed into a roadside billboard after driving at high speed.
DESTMA firmly rejected social media allegations suggesting that the officer engaged in a struggle for control of the steering wheel, describing the claim as false and misleading.
It also criticised a viral Facebook video that only captured the aftermath of the incident, stating that it misrepresented the full sequence of events and created a distorted public impression.
According to the agency, personnel from the B-Division of the Nigeria Police Force later intervened, rescued the officer from a hostile crowd, and conveyed all parties to the station, where investigations are ongoing.
The authority cautioned the public against sharing unverified or edited videos online, stressing that social media must not be used as a platform to incite hostility against public officers.
It cited provisions of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act, noting that the deliberate spread of false information capable of provoking public anger or hatred against officials is a punishable offence.
DESTMA disclosed that it has already directed its legal department to work with relevant security agencies to track, identify, and prosecute individuals involved in circulating false narratives about the agency.
It further urged citizens to verify information before sharing, warning that short clips circulating online often lack proper context and can easily mislead the public.
Hon. Okiemute also condemned repeated assaults on traffic officers by motorists and mob actions, noting that several personnel have suffered serious injuries while performing their duties.
He reiterated that DESTMA officers are public servants who operate under difficult conditions to ensure safer roads and deserve respect rather than violence.
The agency also frowned at attempts by some motorists to offer bribes during enforcement operations, insisting that it maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy on corruption and misconduct.
According to DESTMA, officers found guilty of extortion or unethical behaviour will face disciplinary measures in line with civil service rules.
It disclosed that two officers in Agbor are currently under investigation over alleged infractions during operations.
Members of the public were encouraged to report any form of misconduct through official complaint channels for prompt investigation and action.
DESTMA dismissed claims suggesting it lacks legal backing to arrest offenders or impound vehicles.
It clarified that the Delta State Traffic Management Law of 2013 provides full statutory authority for its operations.
The agency stated that Sections 4 and 5 of the law empower it to regulate traffic, enforce road safety laws in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, apprehend offenders, and remove or impound vehicles violating traffic regulations.
It further affirmed that the DESTMA Marshal Unit is fully empowered to carry out enforcement duties across the state.
The agency assured residents of its continued commitment to firm, fair, and professional enforcement of traffic laws, while also prioritising the safety and protection of its officers.
It commended motorists for improved adherence to traffic regulations, particularly the use of seatbelts and compliance with traffic signals.
DESTMA added that increasing awareness of road safety aligns with the MORE Agenda of Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, aimed at improving transportation systems and public safety across the state.
