BREAKING: LASTMA clamps down on traffic violations, impounds 173 vehicles

Operatives of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) have intensified efforts to restore order to the state’s chaotic roadways by impounding 125 commercial buses and 48 privately owned vehicles in a decisive enforcement campaign against traffic violations.

The clampdown, which targeted notorious traffic hotspots such as Idumota, Ijaiye Street, Martins, Ereko, and Nnamdi Azikiwe by Tom Jones, aimed to eliminate major road obstructions caused by unauthorized parking and dangerous driving practices.

Areas like Ebute-Ero, Oyingbo, Ijora, Adeniji-Adele, and Iddo were also heavily monitored in the operation.

General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, led the operation under the guidance of Mr. Sola Giwa, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation.

This enforcement drive is part of the Lagos State Government’s ongoing commitment to address traffic congestion, particularly in areas plagued by unlawful parking and reckless driving.

“LASTMA is dedicated to eradicating the gridlocks caused by illegal garages and unauthorised parking that obstruct our roads.

“This operation aims to mitigate the unsafe driving practices that contribute to the growing number of road accidents, especially those caused by commercial vehicles driving against traffic or executing dangerous reversals to pick up passengers,” said Bakare-Oki.

The operation follows a series of incidents that have highlighted the risks posed by such reckless behavior, including collisions and fatalities from vehicles driving in the wrong direction.

Bakare-Oki noted that these violations have exacerbated road congestion and heightened the danger to both motorists and pedestrians.

“We are tackling illegal parking and the proliferation of unregulated garages that disrupt the free flow of traffic,” Bakare-Oki emphasized. “Our goal is to ensure the safety of all road users while facilitating smooth movement across Lagos, which is crucial for the economic well-being of the state.”

The operation has been met with approval from local residents and business owners, who have witnessed an immediate reduction in traffic disruptions and a return to order on major thoroughfares. The government has assured that this initiative will be expanded to other trouble spots across the city, with further enforcement actions aimed at curbing unlawful activities on Lagos roads.

LASTMA has urged motorists to comply with traffic regulations and avoid punitive measures. The agency also called on citizens to report broken-down vehicles or abandoned trailers to the agency’s toll-free hotline at 080000527862.