LASTMA Rolls Out Special Traffic Framework Ahead of Detty December Festivities in Lagos

LASTMA Rolls Out Special Traffic Framework Ahead of Detty December Festivities in Lagos

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has unveiled a comprehensive traffic governance framework aimed at ensuring seamless vehicular movement and public safety across the state throughout the yuletide and “Detty December” festivities.

The initiative, announced by the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, is designed to address the anticipated surge in traffic resulting from increased social, religious and commercial activities traditionally associated with the end-of-year season in Lagos.

According to the Agency, concerts, carnivals, end-of-year parties, religious gatherings and other recreational events typically lead to heightened vehicular congestion across major roads and event-prone locations during the festive period. In response, LASTMA has intensified its operational readiness through the deployment of experienced traffic officers, enhanced surveillance systems and 24-hour monitoring of key traffic corridors, commercial hubs and major arterial routes across the metropolis.

Bakare-Oki urged owners and operators of event centres, nightclubs, lounges and other entertainment facilities to put in place effective internal traffic and parking management plans capable of accommodating patrons within their premises. He warned that any overflow of vehicles onto public roads, resulting in obstruction or traffic gridlock, would attract strict enforcement actions.

He also cautioned market leaders, traders’ associations and commercial stakeholders against the illegal display of goods on roadways, walkways and pedestrian corridors, noting that such practices endanger pedestrians and worsen traffic congestion by forcing road users to compete for limited space.

In addition, LASTMA advised motorists to ensure their vehicles are mechanically sound before embarking on journeys during the festive season. The Agency reiterated its zero tolerance for drunk driving, speeding and other forms of reckless behaviour, identifying them as major causes of road traffic crashes during high-traffic periods.

The Authority assured residents and visitors that enforcement teams would remain proactive and uncompromising in the enforcement of traffic regulations, including laws against illegal parking, road obstruction, speeding and impaired driving, throughout the festive period and beyond.

Members of the public were encouraged to cooperate with traffic officers, obey traffic rules and exercise patience on the roads, as collective compliance remains critical to achieving smooth and safe mobility during the celebrations.

LASTMA further disclosed that high-, medium- and low-capacity tow trucks have been strategically positioned across the state—particularly along the Lekki–Ajah corridor—to ensure prompt response to vehicular breakdowns and emergencies. The Agency has also activated its 24-Hour Night Gang Duty to monitor and regulate vehicular movement before, during and after the yuletide season.

Residents can report traffic emergencies and incidents via LASTMA’s toll-free hotline: 0800 005 27862.