The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, has impounded 84 commercial and private vehicles for various traffic violations during a major enforcement operation carried out at key traffic-prone locations across Lagos State. The operation, which took place over the weekend, covered several areas including Idumota, Iddo, Ijora-Olopa, Costain, and Onipanu. These locations were targeted due to repeated traffic violations by motorists and commercial bus operators that have disrupted the smooth movement of traffic.
LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, stated that the agency was particularly concerned about commercial buses driving against traffic and reversing unlawfully along the one-way section between Iddo and Idumota through Cater Bridge. This practice poses a significant danger to motorists, commuters, and pedestrians using the route. Motorists approaching the bridge may have little forewarning that a commercial vehicle is unlawfully reversing against the prescribed direction of traffic, creating a hazardous situation.
The enforcement operation was met with resistance in some locations, with some LASTMA officers reportedly assaulted and injured while carrying out their duties. Bakare-Oki confirmed that suspected miscreants who allegedly attacked the officers and damaged operational vehicles belonging to the agency were arrested during the exercise. The continued enforcement was necessary to address the growing disregard for traffic regulations and restore order along major traffic corridors.
The LASTMA general manager also mentioned that the agency had repeatedly warned transport operators, commercial bus drivers, and other road users against converting under-bridge areas, road setbacks, and other unauthorized spaces into illegal garages. These practices constitute serious impediments to effective traffic management and pose considerable risks to public safety. The agency will continue to enforce traffic regulations to improve compliance and safeguard road users.
Bakare-Oki assured that LASTMA would continue its enforcement operations to improve compliance with traffic regulations, discourage dangerous driving practices, and safeguard motorists, commuters, pedestrians, and other road users. He stressed that public roads, bridges, and spaces beneath bridges would not be allowed to be used for illegal loading, parking, vehicle repairs, or garage operations. Offenders will face appropriate sanctions in line with existing Lagos State traffic laws.
The LASTMA boss advised commercial bus operators, motorists, transport unions, and other stakeholders to avoid driving against traffic, dangerous reversing, illegal parking, indiscriminate loading, and the use of unauthorized areas as garages or loading points. He warned that offenders would face sanctions and called on residents to report dangerous driving, traffic obstructions, reckless motorists, and other violations through LASTMA’s toll-free short code, 3367.
The enforcement operation by LASTMA aims to restore order and safety on Lagos State roads. With the impoundment of 84 vehicles, the agency has demonstrated its commitment to enforcing traffic regulations. Residents are urged to cooperate with LASTMA and report any traffic violations to prevent avoidable incidents on the state’s road network. The agency’s efforts are geared towards ensuring a safer and more orderly traffic environment in Lagos State.
Key points
- LASTMA impounded 84 vehicles for traffic violations during a major enforcement operation in Lagos State.
- The operation targeted areas with repeated traffic violations, including Idumota, Iddo, and Cater Bridge.
- LASTMA will continue to enforce traffic regulations to improve compliance and safeguard road users in Lagos State.
