The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Central Business Districts (CBD), Mr. Olugbenga Oyerinde, has warned operatives of the Agency against extortion, bribe-taking and all forms of corrupt practices, especially during the festive period.

Oyerinde, who gave the warning while addressing officers of the Agency in preparation for the yuletide season, urged the personnel to be civil, firm and decisive in their actions, while avoiding unlawful acts that are capable of bringing the Agency to disrepute and losing the confidence of stakeholders within the business districts.

While charging them to rise up to the traffic and environmental challenges of the ember months characterised by the high influx of shoppers and visitors to the business district, the Special Adviser appealed to business owners, motorists and the general public not to give bribe to any officer.

He said, “Corruption is not limited to extortion or financial inducement alone but indiscipline in the discharge of our duties. We should be conscious of the fact that our actions should be corrective rather than punitive. Any unnecessary action that is taken against the citizens will make them lose confidence in the activities of the Agency and such will not be encouraged”.

“Do not leave any room for the public to doubt your integrity, your honesty and your commitment to traffic and environmental management. Do not drag the Agency in the mud by yielding to any temptation of indulging in corrupt practices or any act or activity that could bring disrespect to the government”, the Special Adviser warned.

He, therefore, tasked the operatives to be good ambassadors of the Lagos State Government and be courteous to the motoring public as well as residents and business owners within the business districts.

Oyerinde warned officers that their uniforms are not a license for extortion or unruliness to the public, advising them to be courteous, respectful, show good character, integrity and shun all forms of corruption.