LASTMA Launches Statewide Clean-Up Operation, Sanctions 235 Vehicles and Arrests 10 Miscreants in Lagos

LASTMA Launches Statewide Clean-Up Operation, Sanctions 235 Vehicles and Arrests 10 Miscreants in Lagos

In a renewed effort to restore traffic order and urban decency across Lagos, the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has commenced a sweeping enforcement operation targeting major traffic corridors plagued by congestion and lawlessness.

The exercise, which began with full-scale deployment of officers across traffic hotspots such as Oyingbo, Iddo, Eja-Lonibu, Adeniji Adele, Sabo, Jibowu (Inter-State Terminal), and Oshodi, is being led by LASTMA General Manager, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, under directives from the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa.

In the first phase of the operation, LASTMA impounded 235 vehicles for various violations of the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018. These included:

• 38 private vehicles

• 156 commercial buses (Danfo)

• 19 minibuses/tricycles (Korope)

• 5 haulage trucks

• 17 inter-state passenger buses

Violations ranged from illegal parking, obstruction of traffic, and creation of unauthorized terminals, to driving against traffic and encroachment on pedestrian walkways.

One of the most alarming incidents occurred on the Adeniji Adele Bridge, where five articulated trucks were caught offloading livestock—including cows and rams—along with abattoir waste. The activity not only violated environmental and traffic laws but also posed a risk to public safety and the structural integrity of the bridge. The drivers involved have been arrested and will face prosecution.

Mr. Bakare-Oki emphasized that the operation is part of a wider mandate to eliminate traffic impunity and bring sanity to Lagos roads.

“LASTMA is now operating under a strict zero-tolerance policy against traffic infractions. All impounded vehicles will be prosecuted through the Lagos State Mobile Court. The era of impunity is over,” he said.

“This initiative is not targeted at any specific group or business interest. It is a long-overdue move to correct the systemic breakdown that has defined our traffic system. We urge all road users to see this as a collective call to civic responsibility,” he added.

The Authority also confirmed the arrest of 10 notorious miscreants who were allegedly contributing to the breakdown of law and order in the affected areas.

The enforcement drive will extend to all five administrative divisions of Lagos—Ikeja, Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island, and Epe. It is supported by a robust deployment of regulatory, logistical, and technological resources to reclaim public roadways from illegal use.

LASTMA encouraged residents to report traffic violations or misconduct by traffic officers through its toll-free hotline: 080000527862, assuring the public that all genuine complaints will be promptly addressed.

This clean-up campaign is part of the Lagos State Government’s broader urban regeneration strategy aimed at improving road efficiency, enhancing quality of life, and fostering a culture of responsible road use and environmental consciousness.