The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has impounded 84 commercial and private vehicles for various traffic offences during a weekend enforcement operation. The exercise targeted one-way driving, illegal parking, unauthorised garages, and other traffic violations that have disrupted traffic flow and endangered road users in areas such as Idumota, Iddo, Ijora-Olopa, Costain, and Onipanu.
According to LASTMA, the operation aimed to restore order and ensure compliance with traffic regulations along critical corridors where persistent violations by commercial bus operators and other motorists have become commonplace. The agency expressed concern over the growing practice of commercial buses reversing against traffic from Iddo to Idumota through Carter Bridge, describing the act as highly dangerous and capable of causing fatal crashes.
The enforcement exercise turned violent as some suspected hoodlums and miscreants allegedly attacked LASTMA officials, injuring some personnel and damaging operational vehicles. The agency said some of the suspects involved in the attacks were arrested. LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, described the operation as a necessary intervention to address the growing culture of impunity among road users.
Bakare-Oki reiterated that the agency had repeatedly warned transport operators and commercial bus drivers against converting under-bridge spaces, road setbacks, and other unauthorised locations into illegal garages. He stressed that such activities obstruct traffic and pose serious safety risks. The enforcement campaign would continue to ensure compliance with traffic laws, discourage dangerous driving practices, and protect the lives and property of residents.
The agency urged commercial bus operators, motorists, transport unions, and other stakeholders to desist from one-way driving, dangerous reversing, illegal parking, indiscriminate loading, and the occupation of unauthorised garages. LASTMA encouraged members of the public to report reckless driving, traffic obstructions, and other traffic-related offences through its toll-free emergency short code, 3367, for prompt response.
The operation is part of LASTMA's efforts to address the growing concerns over road safety in Lagos State. The agency has been working to reduce the number of traffic accidents and improve the overall traffic flow in the state. By impounding vehicles and enforcing traffic regulations, LASTMA aims to create a safer and more efficient transportation system.
In a statement, LASTMA warned that no individual or group would be allowed to use public roads, bridges, or under-bridge spaces for illegal loading, parking, vehicle repairs, or garage operations. The agency remains committed to ensuring that traffic regulations are enforced and that road users comply with the rules to prevent accidents and promote a safer transportation environment.
Key points
- LASTMA impounded 84 vehicles for traffic offences, including one-way driving and illegal garages.
- The enforcement exercise turned violent, with some suspects arrested for attacking LASTMA officials.
- LASTMA urges road users to report reckless driving and traffic offences through its toll-free emergency short code, 3367.
