THE RETURN OF ISTMA

…..Drivers Jubilate as Friendly Traffic Management Team Returns to the Roads

Owerri was in a jubilant mood on Friday as the Imo State Traffic Management Authority (ISTMA) officially returned to duty under the renewed directive of the Ministry of Transport. Drivers and transport operators across the capital city expressed joy at the rebirth of the agency, which they described as more approachable and humane in its operations.

The inauguration of the new ISTMA teams, held at Arugo Motor Park along Onitsha Road, was presided over by the Imo State Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Emeka Okoronkwo. The Commissioner charged the operatives to carry out their duties with a human face, maintaining civility and professionalism while ensuring that the roads remain orderly.

According to him, ISTMA will now serve as the sole government agency responsible for traffic control and management in the state. He emphasized that the new phase of operations is designed to foster a friendly working relationship with drivers while strictly enforcing traffic regulations, particularly around sensitive areas such as the Assumpta Cathedral/Control Post Flyover.

Hon. Okoronkwo explained that the enforcement became necessary following the state government’s ban on loading and offloading of passengers and goods under and around the Assumpta Flyover. He noted that the measure aims to preserve the integrity of the newly commissioned infrastructure and ensure smooth traffic flow within the area.

“The commencement of this operation has become expedient to guarantee safe road usage and protect such critical infrastructure as the Assumpta Flyover recently commissioned by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,” the Commissioner stated.

He also disclosed that the Ministry has made available three public distress phone lines for feedback and complaints on the conduct of ISTMA officials. He warned that any form of misconduct or abuse of duty would attract strict disciplinary measures.

Commending Governor Hope Uzodimma for his commitment to modern transport infrastructure, Okoronkwo noted that the Governor holds drivers in high regard as key contributors to the state’s economy.

Delivering a lecture during the event, the Public Education Officer of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Imo State, Mr. David Egejuru, urged ISTMA operatives to be courteous, disciplined, and law-abiding. He reminded them that road safety is a shared responsibility and cautioned against alcohol consumption, aggression, or violation of motorists’ rights.

The inauguration was attended by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Mrs. Moneme Judith-Fred, the Head of Department of Transport, and other key stakeholders in the road traffic management sector.

With the return of ISTMA, Owerri drivers are optimistic that sanity and order will once again define traffic management in the city, as the agency resumes its role as a bridge between the government and road users.