In a bid to tackle traffic congestion and reckless road practices, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority has impounded 125 commercial buses and 48 private vehicles for various traffic violations, including illegal parking and severe road obstructions.
According to a statement released on Thursday via LASTMA’s official X handle, the operation was led by General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, under the directive of Mr. Sola Giwa, Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation.
The enforcement targeted gridlock-prone areas, including Idumota, Ijaye Street, Martins, Ereko, Nnamdi Azikiwe by Tom Jones, Ebute-Ero, Oyingbo, Ijora, Adeniji Adele, and Iddo.
Bakare-Oki noted that locations such as Iddo, Oyingbo, Ebute-Ero, and Adeniji Adele roundabout have become major congestion hotspots due to unauthorised parking and the indiscriminate establishment of makeshift garages.
“This operation reinforces LASTMA’s commitment to tackling chronic traffic bottlenecks caused by reckless commercial drivers and private motorists who flout regulations. We will not tolerate acts like driving against traffic (one-way) and dangerous reversals along key corridors, which have resulted in avoidable accidents and loss of lives,”Bakare-Oki stated.
The crackdown specifically targeted illegal garages, which have been identified as key contributors to persistent traffic gridlocks, causing hardship for commuters and businesses.
LASTMA reaffirmed that this enforcement aligns with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s vision to enhance traffic management and improve road safety across Lagos.
“Illegal garages and indiscriminate obstructions remain a major impediment to achieving smooth mobility in Lagos. Our enforcement drive serves as a clear warning that traffic laws must be obeyed,” Bakare-Oki emphasized.
He further highlighted that beyond impeding vehicular movement, reckless parking by commercial bus drivers poses serious risks to pedestrian safety.
In response to the exercise, residents and business owners have commended the initiative, acknowledging its positive impact on reducing traffic delays and boosting economic activities in affected areas.
LASTMA assured the public that this operation would be expanded to other locations facing similar challenges and urged all road users to adhere strictly to traffic regulations to avoid punitive measures.
