Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Abuja, Nigeria — As Lagos prepares for the Easter holiday travel surge, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has intensified its operations to manage increased traffic volumes and promote road safety across the metropolis. The General Manager, Olalekan Bakare‑Oki, announced a strengthened deployment of personnel and resources, warning motorists against drunk driving, reckless speeding, overloading, and other unsafe practices that could heighten the risk of accidents during the festive period. The announcement coincides with ongoing scrutiny of LASTMA following recent allegations of extortion involving some of its officers.
Festive periods such as Easter typically see heightened movement as residents travel to attend religious services, visit family, and engage in leisure activities. Anticipating this, LASTMA has mobilised additional officers across major corridors, intersections, transport hubs, central business districts, and other high‑traffic zones throughout Lagos. High and medium-capacity tow trucks, traffic cones, safety barriers, and other essential equipment have been strategically positioned at key transit points to ensure rapid response to breakdowns and incidents, maintaining the smooth flow of traffic.
Bakare‑Oki emphasised that while celebrations are important, they must not compromise road safety. He urged all motorists to follow traffic regulations and instructions from officers, exercise patience, and avoid risky behaviours such as drinking and driving, excessive overtaking, and ignoring speed limits. He stressed that a single moment of impaired judgment could result in irreversible loss of life.
The advisory comes amid ongoing investigations into allegations that some LASTMA officers extorted money from commercial bus drivers along certain corridors. The agency has pledged a full and impartial investigation, inviting the complainants to present evidence and promising strict disciplinary action for any personnel found culpable. This move underscores the Authority’s commitment to professional conduct while maintaining public trust.
In addition to enforcement, LASTMA has been active in public education campaigns aimed at promoting traffic discipline. Initiatives targeting young drivers and commercial operators have focused on instilling safe driving habits and raising awareness of the dangers of speeding, overloading, and impaired driving. Officials say that these measures complement frontline enforcement and address behavioural factors contributing to road accidents.
Bakare‑Oki also highlighted coordination with the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation to temporarily suspend roadworks on key routes during peak travel times, facilitating smoother traffic flow. These operational adaptations, combined with increased officer deployment, aim to mitigate congestion and prevent incidents during one of the city’s busiest travel periods.
Public response to LASTMA’s Easter traffic measures has been mixed. Many residents and commuters welcomed the increased presence of officers and resources, expressing hope that it would reduce reckless driving and delays. Others called for longer-term solutions, including infrastructure improvements and enhanced driver education, to address the systemic challenges of Lagos’s road network.
The Authority reiterated that road safety is a shared responsibility and encouraged residents to report traffic violations, obstructions, or emergencies promptly. Early reporting allows officers to respond quickly, preventing escalation and protecting lives.
As Lagos navigates the complexities of Easter travel, LASTMA’s reinforced deployment, public education efforts, and ongoing investigations into alleged misconduct reflect a comprehensive approach to traffic management. Officials hope that these measures will safeguard residents, commuters, and visitors while promoting a culture of compliance and responsible driving throughout the holiday period.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters News | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments