Kwara State Traffic Authority Fires Staff, Downgrades Two Others for Alleged Bribery

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The Kwara State Road Traffic Management Authority 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 in Ilorin.

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The disciplinary action was contained in a statement issued on Monday by the Head of Media and Public Relations of KWARTMA, Olawuyi Olalekan, following a viral video showing three personnel allegedly engaging in unethical conduct at the Geri Alimi Roundabout during the sanitation exercise on Saturday, June 27, 2026.

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The video generated public concern and prompted the management to investigate the conduct of the personnel involved.

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The Chief Executive Officer of KWARTMA, Abdullahi Oba, acknowledged the concerns raised by members of the public and said the conduct captured in the video did not represent the values, operational standards or official policy of the authority.

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Oba said KWARTMA maintained a zero-tolerance policy against extortion, bribery, corruption and all forms of misconduct by its personnel.

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According to the statement, three personnel allegedly involved were subsequently directed to report to the Provost Department for interrogation and investigation. The statement added that they were later invited before the Senior Staff Management Committee to respond to the allegations and undergo disciplinary proceedings in accordance with public service rules.

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Following the investigation and disciplinary proceedings, the three personnel were found culpable and sanctioned accordingly, with the sanctions taking effect from July 9, 2026. Oba described the dismissal of one of the personnel as a landmark disciplinary action in the history of the authority.

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“The dismissal demonstrates the seriousness with which the management regards corruption, extortion and other forms of misconduct,” Oba said.

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He said the disciplinary action would serve as a deterrent to other personnel and reinforce the authority’s commitment to maintaining public confidence. Oba urged all officers and men of KWARTMA to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, discipline and accountability in the discharge of their duties.

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“Any personnel found culpable of extortion, bribery, corruption or other unethical practices will face appropriate disciplinary action in accordance with public service rules. 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 warned.

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The authority also reassured members of the public that its personnel would continue to discharge their duties professionally, courteously and responsibly while operating within the law and approved procedures.

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KWARTMA said the action was part of its commitment to transparency, accountability and due process in dealing with cases of misconduct.

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The authority reaffirmed its mandate to promote road safety, protect lives and property, ensure orderly traffic management and provide quality service to residents of Kwara State.

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