LASAA Urges Public to Follow Proper Payment Procedures After Staff Allegation and Clarification
The Lagos State Signage and Advertisement Agency (LASAA) has announced that an internal investigation has exonerated a staff member, Olukayode John Adetifa, of the recent viral allegation of fraud. However, the agency confirmed that he will face disciplinary measures for breaching the agency’s strict ‘no cash’ policy and for transacting through a personal account.
The controversy erupted after social media users accused Mr. Adetifa, who is stationed at the Alimosho Branch Office, of improperly collecting ₦45,000 from MJ Beauty Salon via his personal Opay account, while only issuing a receipt for ₦7,100. LASAA responded swiftly, launching an investigation and emphasizing that all payments should be made through official channels to ensure transparency.
During the inquiry, Mr. Adetifa explained that the transaction involved a business with multiple unregistered signs scheduled for enforcement. When the client, MJ Beauty Salon, agreed to pay registration fees, she offered cash due to feeling unwell. Mr. Adetifa declined the cash but assisted her in making an official online payment, collecting ₦40,000 to cover various fees, including application, permit, and gateway charges. He registered the signs online in her presence, promising official notification via email.
The business owner later confirmed her understanding of the situation, apologizing for the misunderstanding and disassociating herself from the viral social media post. She also clarified she was unaware of the story circulating on X (formerly Twitter) and denied any wrongdoing by Mr. Adetifa.
While the investigation cleared Mr. Adetifa of any fraudulent intent, LASAA emphasized that collecting client payments through personal accounts violates agency policy. “He has committed an offense by collecting money in his personal account,” the agency stated. Disciplinary actions will follow per the Public Service Rules after the disciplinary committee submits its report.
LASAA reiterated its commitment to transparency, urging the public to follow proper procedures, including the ‘no cash’ policy and transactions via the official online platform. The agency also warned against spreading false information that damages government services and called for responsible reporting of genuine issues.