By Omonigho Okotie
The Director-General of the Delta State Traffic Management Authority (DESTMA), Hon. Dr. Benjamin Essien Okiemute NN (Rtd), FNIIS, has issued a stern warning to officers of the Asaba Zonal Command against indiscipline, extortion and unprofessional conduct, insisting that strict adherence to operational guidelines remains non-negotiable.
The warning came during a strategic engagement with officers of the Asaba Zonal Command at its headquarters, where the Director-General reiterated the Authority’s determination to reposition its workforce through discipline, accountability and improved service delivery.
Dr. Okiemute said the ongoing institutional reforms and rebranding initiative were designed to restore public confidence in DESTMA, stressing that no officer would be permitted to engage in activities capable of undermining the Authority’s credibility.
He disclosed that, in accordance with the directives of Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, officers could be deployed across their respective senatorial districts whenever operational exigencies demanded, adding that the activities of the various commands would be closely monitored to ensure compliance with established standards.
The Director-General also urged officers to maintain professional relationships with members of the public and collaborate with sister security agencies in promoting law and order, traffic safety and security across the state.
“Indiscipline kills a system. You must be disciplined at all times. Do not operate outside the prescribed procedures of the Authority. We must not see you engaging in extortion.
“Give DESTMA the identity and reputation for which it was established. Do not become an obstacle to the rebranding efforts of His Excellency in this Authority,” he cautioned.
Also speaking, the Director of Operations, Engr. Francis Edema, charged officers to discharge their duties within the confines of the law and demonstrate cooperation with the newly appointed Zonal Commander.
He emphasised the need for proper appearance, insisting that officers must always wear their uniforms appropriately, carry valid identification cards and comply with the Authority’s operational regulations.
In his remarks, the newly posted Asaba Zonal Commander, Mr. Agbaga Augustine, expressed gratitude to the Board Chairman, members of the Board, the Director-General, directors and other officials of the Authority for the confidence reposed in him through his appointment.
Describing effective leadership as a collective responsibility, Agbaga called for unity, mutual understanding and cooperation among officers, noting that the success of the command would depend largely on their willingness to work towards common objectives.
“My success in this position will depend on our collective effort. Let us work with one mind. Discipline must begin with our appearance. Your uniforms must be clean, and your dressing must set an example for other commands,” he said.
The Zonal Commander further warned against absenteeism, truancy and abandonment of assigned duties, directing officers to remain at their designated beats and demonstrate unwavering commitment to their responsibilities.
Drawing on his experience in patrol operations, traffic management and coordination, he assured the Director-General of his readiness to provide purposeful leadership and improve operational effectiveness within the command.
He maintained that performance, discipline and accountability would be the defining principles of his administration, stressing that officers must be physically present, responsive and effective at their respective duty posts.
The strategic engagement underscores DESTMA’s renewed drive to strengthen institutional discipline, eliminate unwholesome practices and build a more accountable and professionally oriented workforce capable of delivering efficient traffic management services in Delta State.
