LASAA probes staff member over payment fraud claims

The Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency says it has commenced an investigation into one of its staff members, accused of engaging in improper transaction practices by using a personal bank account to collect payments from customers for signage-related services.

In a statement on Thursday, the agency described the allegation, which surfaced on social media, as a serious breach of financial and ethical standards if found to be true.

“The Agency views this allegation with utmost seriousness and wishes to state unequivocally that such actions, if verified, are contrary to the established financial and ethical procedures governing transactions within LASAA and the Lagos State Civil Service,” the statement read in part.

It said the management, acting on the directive of the Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Mr Tokunbo Wahab, had identified the staff involved and directed them to report to the agency’s head office for immediate investigation and disciplinary proceedings in line with public service rules.

LASAA reiterated its commitment to transparency and accountability in all its operations, stressing that all payments for its services must be made only through officially designated government channels.

“We appreciate the vigilance of members of the public who bring such matters to our attention. The Agency assures all stakeholders and clients that necessary corrective measures will be taken to uphold public trust and the integrity of our processes,” the statement said.

PUNCH Online reported on Wednesday that the controversy began after a user on X (formerly Twitter), identified as @Bhadmoz (TrueBlue), alleged that LASAA had been using a personal bank account to receive payments for signage services.

The post, which Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other state officials were tagged, claimed that customers were issued receipts that did not correspond with the amounts paid.

In response, Commissioner Wahab confirmed via his X handle that the person involved was indeed a LASAA staff member and had been directed to face disciplinary action.

Wahab reaffirmed the government’s zero tolerance for unethical conduct in the civil service, warning that any public servant found engaging in such practices would face strict sanctions.

LASAA, a regulatory agency under the Ministry of Environment and Water Resources, is responsible for the control and management of outdoor advertising and signage displays across Lagos State.

The agency said further updates would be provided as the investigation progresses.