By MAUREEN ESEH

The Delta State Traffic Management Authority (DESTMA) has issued a 48-hour ultimatum to an activist, Mr. Zik Gbemre, demanding a public retraction of an alleged defamatory online publication on two national newspapers, or face legal action.

The controversy stems from a 4th March, 2025 online publication in which Gbemre accused DESTMA officials of extorting motorists and operating under a directive to generate revenue for the state government. The activist further alleged that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had turned the agency into a tool for thuggery and financial exploitation, a claim DESTMA has firmly denied.

Gbemre’s publication was based on an incident involving one Pastor Kingsley Oghwe, who was apprehended around Airport Road, Warri on 1st March, 2025 for allegedly driving without a seatbelt. According to the account, it was alleged that DESTMA officials impounded his vehicle and demanded a N75,000 fine or a mobile court trial. He claimed that after hours of delay, he made a payment of N30,000 before his vehicle was released.

He further alleged that the officers insisted they were working under strict revenue targets set by the governor, failing which their roles would be given to other “waiting thugs.”

Reacting to these allegations, DESTMA Director-General, Hon. Benjamin Okiemute described them as politically motivated, false, and damaging to the agency’s reputation. He emphasised that since assuming office, he had prioritised the restructuring and professionalisation of DESTMA, including staff training, re-orientation, and engagement with law enforcement agencies such as the Nigeria Police, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and the Nigerian Army.

Okiemute stated that an internal inquiry was launched into the allegations, which found them to be misleading and baseless.

According to the DG, DESTMA’s investigation revealed that Oghwe had indeed violated traffic laws by not wearing a seatbelt and causing traffic obstruction. However, rather than complying with official procedures, Oghwe allegedly resisted arrest and attempted to drive off with a DESTMA officer inside his vehicle, which was thwarted by the smart thinking of the officer.

He stated that upon arrival at the agency’s Warri office, Oghwe would have been charged before a mobile court, as is standard procedure, but upon pleading for leniency, his charges were reduced and he was subsequently asked to pay a fine of ?30,000 into the agency’s coffers, which he did, as the agency does not handle cash payments directly.

DESTMA also criticised Gbemre for failing to verify the facts before going public with his accusations, stating that his claims were based solely on Oghwe’s account without seeking clarification from the agency. Okiemute suggested that the activist’s actions were politically motivated and part of a pattern of sensationalism aimed at gaining attention.

He maintained DESTMA’s commitment to upholding transparency, professionalism, and adherence to due process in traffic management across Delta State. The agency also reassured the public that its officers are trained to operate within the confines of the law, and any grievances should be formally reported rather than propagated through unverified media reports. (Delta State News Bulletin)