The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has intensified its enforcement operations across identified traffic flashpoints in the state, impounding 84 commercial and private vehicles for various traffic infractions. The enforcement exercise took place at Idumota, Iddo, Ijora-Olopa, Costain, and Onipanu. According to LASTMA's General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, the operation aimed to restore sanity, orderliness, and strict compliance with extant traffic regulations.
The enforcement exercise targeted corridors where persistent violations by recalcitrant motorists and commercial bus operators have posed a threat to road safety and traffic movement. Bakare-Oki expressed concern over the practice of commercial buses reversing against traffic along the one-way stretch from Iddo back to Idumota through Carter Bridge, describing it as an irresponsible maneuver capable of causing hazardous situations.
The practice of reversing against traffic can catch unsuspecting motorists, commuters, and pedestrians off guard, potentially leading to devastating collisions, injuries, and fatalities. LASTMA's General Manager emphasized that the agency had repeatedly cautioned transport operators, commercial bus drivers, and other road users against occupying under-bridge spaces, road setbacks, and unauthorized locations as illegal garages.
During the enforcement operation, LASTMA personnel encountered resistance from some individuals, resulting in physical assault and injuries to agency staff. Some miscreants and hoodlums who attacked and damaged the agency's operational vehicles were apprehended. Bakare-Oki reiterated that the sustained enforcement campaign aims to secure compliance with extant traffic regulations and deter hazardous driving practices.
The enforcement campaign also seeks to safeguard the lives and property of motorists, commuters, pedestrians, and other road users. LASTMA admonished commercial bus operators, motorists, transport unions, and other stakeholders to desist from one-way driving, dangerous reversing, illegal parking, indiscriminate loading, and occupying unauthorized garages or under-bridge locations.
The agency warned that further infractions would attract appropriate enforcement measures in accordance with extant Lagos State traffic laws. The enforcement exercise is part of LASTMA's efforts to effectively manage traffic and mitigate risks to public safety. The agency remains committed to ensuring compliance with traffic regulations and promoting road safety.
In a related development, the Lagos State Government has urged residents to be patient with the ongoing efforts to improve waste management and traffic control in the state. The government has assured residents that measures are being taken to address the challenges and improve the overall quality of life in Lagos State.
Key points
- LASTMA impounded 84 vehicles for traffic infractions during the enforcement exercise.
- The agency encountered resistance from some individuals, resulting in physical assault and injuries to agency staff.
- The enforcement campaign aims to secure compliance with extant traffic regulations and deter hazardous driving practices.
