By Abel Johngold, mnipr
It’s disheartening that most DESTMA officials seem more interested in extorting money from motorists than genuinely controlling traffic or educating road users. Their primary focus appears to be on vehicles that might commit traffic offenses, rather than ensuring smooth traffic flow.
The notorious extortion hotspots are along ICT Branch of Zenith Bank to House of Assembly Junction on Okpanam Road, while the Jesus Saves Junction and Erhuvwun (Gagas) Junction along Dr. Emmanuel Ewetan Uduaghan Way (Summit Road) have become breeding grounds for what many now describe as “DESTMA Terrorists.”
However, it’s not all gloom. I must commend the dedicated officers stationed at Kowen Plaza Junction, Governor’s Road Junction, and the hardworking women at NTA/McDonald’s Junction. These officers have consistently demonstrated professionalism and commitment to their duties.
A special commendation goes to a handsome, fair-complexioned young man who controls traffic at Governor’s Road/Uzoigwe Primary Junction and sometimes at Kowen Plaza Junction. His dedication to duty is exemplary. Also, Woman Inspector Akaeze, a police officer often seen with DESTMA teams at Kowen Plaza junction, deserves accolades for her hard work and fairness.
Unfortunately, the men attached to DESTMA patrol trucks have given the agency a bad name, with many residents now referring to them as “DESTMA Thieves” or “Okowa Mobile Robbery Police.”
It’s high time the agency reorients its officials and weeds out the bad eggs to restore public trust in its operations.