Tension erupted at the ever-busy Ile-Epo Market axis of the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway after a commercial bus conductor allegedly stabbed a Lagos State Traffic Management Authority officer with a screwdriver during a routine enforcement operation.

The shocking incident, which has sparked outrage across Lagos, occurred when officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority attempted to apprehend a Volkswagen commercial bus with registration number LSR 989 XG for allegedly obstructing traffic and causing a gridlock along the busy corridor.

According to the agency’s spokesperson, Adebayo Taofiq, the situation quickly spiralled out of control when the bus driver reportedly resisted arrest. In the heat of the confrontation, the conductor, identified as Lekan Olasunkanmi, allegedly pulled out a screwdriver and attacked oOfficerT. Shittu, stabbing him and leaving him injured.

The attack sent shockwaves through traders, commuters, and bystanders at the bustling market area, with many scrambling for safety as the drama unfolded.

The injured officer was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for urgent treatment and is reportedly responding well.

Following the incident, the suspect was arrested and taken to the Nigeria Police Force for further investigation and possible prosecution.

During preliminary interrogation, the suspect reportedly admitted to bringing out the screwdriver, claiming the stabbing happened “by mistake” during the heated altercation.

Reacting to the disturbing attack, LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, condemned the growing hostility against traffic officers and warned that anyone found assaulting law enforcement personnel would face serious legal consequences.

He stressed that traffic officials are on the roads daily to ease movement, maintain order, and ensure compliance with traffic laws, adding that attacks on them amount to a direct assault on public order.

Bakare-Oki also called on transport unions, bus operators, and motorists to educate their members on the importance of respecting traffic officers and obeying road regulations.

The incident has once again raised concerns over the safety of traffic officers in Lagos, as violent confrontations between commercial transport workers and enforcement agencies continue to make headlines.