By Sunny A. David, Awka
The management of the Anambra State Traffic Management Agency (ATMA) has reportedly suspended some of its officers for two months without pay following a viral video showing them singing a campaign song in support of former Anambra State Governor, Mr Peter Obi, and his reported running mate, Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso
The disciplinary action was announced on Tuesday after the agency investigated the incident, which generated widespread reactions on social media
The officers were reportedly seen singing the campaign song associated with the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) presidential ticket to a motorist at Nwagu Agulu Junction, where they were deployed for traffic control duties.
Following the circulation of the video, the affected officers were summoned to the agency’s headquarters in Awka to explain their actions and the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Although the reason behind their conduct has not been officially established, there were suggestions that the officers might have been prompted by the NDC logo they reportedly noticed on the motorist’s vehicle.
The reported suspension has left the affected officers distressed, with some said to be seeking the intervention of influential individuals who could appeal to the relevant authorities for leniency.
Sources indicated that some of the officers had been weeping and approaching prominent personalities for assistance, expressing concerns about their financial situation and future.
Their relatives have also appealed to well-meaning individuals to help them secure alternative employment opportunities, expressing fears that the two-month suspension without salary could worsen the economic challenges facing their families.
The incident has sparked renewed debate over the extent to which public servants can express their political preferences while carrying out official responsibilities.
Although public officers retain their constitutional rights as citizens, regulations guiding their respective agencies may restrict partisan political activities, particularly when such activities take place during working hours or while wearing official uniforms.
However, it remains unclear whether the suspension was specifically imposed for violating ATMA’s operational regulations or for other reasons connected with the incident.
As of the time of filing this report, the agency had yet to publicly provide further details on the specific grounds for the disciplinary action.
