The Lagos State Safety Commission has refuted a viral social media video alleging that one Mariam Bunmi, who purportedly claimed to be an official of the commission, collected a bribe from members of the public in the Oworonshoki area of the state to prevent houses from being demolished.

In a statement signed by the Director of Public Affairs, Mrs Okoh Adewunmi, the commission categorically disowned the woman, stating that she is not and has never been an employee of the agency.

“The said Mariam Bunmi is unknown to the Lagos State Safety Commission in any capacity. We completely dissociate ourselves from her and her alleged actions,” the statement read.

The commission reaffirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability, stressing that it operates a zero-tolerance policy toward corruption, extortion, and all forms of unethical conduct.

Members of the public were urged to disregard the viral video and remain cautious of impostors posing as officials of the safety commission.

The agency further cautioned media organisations, including Lagos Reporters, the platform that circulated the video, to exercise due diligence by verifying information and confirming official identities before publication.

The statement advised residents not to make any payments to individuals claiming to represent the commission but instead to report such fraudulent acts through the commission’s official communication channels.

“For clarification or verification, the public should not pay a dime to anyone parading as officials of the Lagos State Safety Commission but should report such uncharitable acts to the Commission,” Mrs Adewunmi emphasised.

The commission reiterated that its core mandate remains the protection of lives and property across the state through the enforcement of safety standards and practices. (THE SUN)