DESTMA Slams Gbemre’s Publication As ‘Tissue Of Lies’, Demands Retraction

The Delta State Traffic Management Authority (DESTMA) has vehemently denied allegations of extortion and thuggery leveled against it by one Mr. Zik Gbemre.

In a press conference, Director-General of DESTMA, Benjamin Okiemute, described Gbemre’s publication as “a blackmail and tissue of lies without any iota of truth.”

According to Okiemute, Gbemre’s allegations were fabricated and politically motivated, aimed at tarnishing the reputation of DESTMA and the state government.

“We shall not fold our hands and watch a man whose stock in trade is fabrication of stories with intentions of blackmailing and arm-twisting individuals and government officials,” Okiemute stated.

The controversy began when Gbemre published an article titled “Gov Oborevwori, Please Stop The Thuggery, Extortion By DESTMA,” alleging that DESTMA officials extorted money from a motorist, Kingsley Oghwe, in Warri.

However, DESTMA’s investigation revealed that Oghwe was actually fined for violating traffic rules and causing road obstruction.

Okiemute emphasized that DESTMA is committed to promoting a disciplined traffic culture and improving its operations.

“We have been undergoing re-branding and repositioning, which entails training and re-training of staff, staff re-sensitization, re-orientation, and organizational restructuring,” he explained.

DESTMA has given Gbemre 48 hours to retract his publication in two national daily newspapers or face legal action for defamation and libel.