The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has impounded 84 commercial and private vehicles for various traffic offences during a weekend enforcement operation across major traffic flashpoints in Lagos, Nigeria. The operation took place on September 26 and 27, 2026, and targeted areas including Idumota, Iddo, Ijora-Olopa, Costain, and Onipanu. LASTMA officers enforced regulations against one-way driving, illegal parking, indiscriminate loading, and the use of unauthorised locations as garages.
The enforcement operation witnessed resistance from some motorists and suspected miscreants, with several LASTMA officers reportedly attacked and injured. The agency said some of those allegedly involved in the attacks were arrested, while its operational vehicles were damaged during the confrontation. This development highlights the challenges faced by traffic management authorities in enforcing regulations and maintaining order on Lagos roads.
One of the major concerns of LASTMA during the operation was the practice of commercial buses reversing against traffic along the one-way stretch from Iddo to Idumota through Cater Bridge. The agency described this practice as dangerous, warning that motorists, commuters, and pedestrians approaching the bridge could be caught unaware by vehicles reversing against the flow of traffic. This reckless behaviour poses a significant risk to road users and undermines efforts to maintain safety on Lagos roads.
LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, emphasised that the enforcement was necessary to curb persistent traffic violations and restore order along critical traffic corridors. He said the agency had repeatedly warned transport operators, commercial bus drivers, and other road users against using under-bridge spaces, road setbacks, and other unauthorised locations as illegal garages. Bakare-Oki stressed that such practices obstruct traffic and create risks for motorists, commuters, and pedestrians.
The general manager reiterated that LASTMA would not allow individuals or groups to appropriate public roads, bridges, or under-bridge spaces for illegal loading, parking, vehicle repairs, or garage operations. He urged commercial bus operators, motorists, transport unions, and other stakeholders to desist from one-way driving, dangerous reversing, illegal parking, indiscriminate loading, and the use of unauthorised garages. Bakare-Oki warned that further violations would attract appropriate sanctions under Lagos State traffic laws.
In an effort to engage with the public and encourage responsible behaviour, LASTMA urged members of the public to report dangerous driving, traffic obstructions, reckless motorists, and other traffic violations through its toll-free short code 767. The agency said timely reports would help it respond quickly and prevent avoidable incidents. By working together with the public, LASTMA aims to improve road safety and reduce the incidence of traffic-related accidents in Lagos.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority's enforcement operation demonstrates its commitment to maintaining order and safety on Lagos roads. With 84 vehicles impounded during the weekend operation, LASTMA has sent a strong message to motorists and transport operators that traffic regulations will be enforced and violators will be sanctioned. The agency's efforts are crucial in promoting a culture of responsible road use and reducing the risks associated with reckless behaviour on Lagos roads.
Key points
- 84 vehicles impounded for traffic offences during LASTMA's weekend enforcement operation
- LASTMA warns against one-way driving, dangerous reversing, and illegal parking in Lagos
- Public encouraged to report traffic violations through LASTMA's toll-free short code 767
