BREAKING: DESTMA DG Suspends Marshall Operations After Viral Video Sparks Concern

By Richard Elisha Otuzeme

The Director-General of the Delta State Traffic Management Authority Destma, Hon. Dr. Benjamin Essien Okiemute NN (Rtd.), FNIIS, has ordered the immediate suspension of all Marshall operations across Delta State following the circulation of a viral video allegedly showing some personnel operating outside their designated beats.

The directive, issued in Asaba on Saturday, October 10, 2026, will remain in force until further notice.

The decision followed public concerns raised in a trending Facebook video by a Deltan over the activities of some DESTMA Marshalls on a street reportedly outside their authorised operational areas.

Reacting to the development, Dr. Okiemute expressed concern over the allegations and directed all Marshalls to immediately suspend enforcement activities on roads across the state pending further notice.

“No DESTMA Marshall should carry out any form of enforcement on our roads until further notice,” the Director-General declared.

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The move underscores the agency’s position on discipline, accountability and strict compliance with operational guidelines, particularly amid growing public scrutiny of traffic enforcement practices.

Dr. Okiemute reiterated that DESTMA personnel must operate strictly within their assigned jurisdictions and exercise their duties with professionalism, restraint and respect for members of the public.

He stressed that no officer or enforcement team would be expected to act beyond the limits of their authority, noting that adherence to established procedures remains critical to maintaining public confidence in the agency.

The suspension also serves as a reminder that personnel entrusted with traffic management responsibilities must uphold the standards of conduct expected of a public institution committed to road safety and effective service delivery.

DESTMA has urged its personnel to comply fully with the directive as the Authority continues its efforts to promote responsible enforcement, improve traffic management and sustain a disciplined driving culture across Delta State.

The suspension remains in effect until further notice.