LASTMA Seizes 173 Vehicles For Illegal Parking And Road Obstructions Across Lagos

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) recently impounded 173 vehicles for violating traffic regulations, specifically for illegal parking and causing road obstructions.

The vehicles seized included 125 commercial buses and 48 private cars, and the operation took place in some of Lagos’ busiest and most congested areas, such as Idumota, Ijaye Street, Martins, Ereko, Nnamdi Azikiwe by Tom Jones, Ebute-Ero, Oyingbo, Ijora, Adeniji Adele, and Iddo.

In a statement released on Thursday via LASTMA’s official X (formerly Twitter) account, the agency emphasized its commitment to upholding traffic discipline and ensuring smooth vehicle movement across the city.

Focused Crackdown on Traffic Offenders

This operation is part of LASTMA’s ongoing effort to ease Lagos’ notorious traffic congestion, particularly in areas where illegal parking and unauthorized garages worsen gridlocks. The crackdown targets not only illegal parking but also unsafe driving behaviors such as driving against traffic and reckless maneuvers.

Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, LASTMA General Manager, alongside Mr. Sola Giwa, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, led the initiative. The operation is part of a broader campaign to address dangerous driving habits and enforce traffic discipline across the state.

Other Traffic Violations Leading to Impoundment

In addition to illegal parking and road obstructions, LASTMA enforces the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018, which lists over 20 offenses that can result in vehicle impoundment. Some of the key violations include:

Driving without a valid driver’s license
Disobeying traffic control personnel
Driving underage (under 18)
Operating a vehicle without a Ministry of Transport (MOT) Test Certificate
Lack of Certificate of Road Worthiness
Not having a valid hackney permit for commercial vehicles
Failing to yield to pedestrians at zebra crossings
Engaging in unsafe behaviors like smoking, drinking, or eating while driving
Operating vehicles within restricted routes or beyond approved hours
Allowing commuters or conductors to hang on the tailboard of moving vehicles

Fines and Penalties for Traffic Offenders

When a vehicle is impounded, the offender must pay fines that correspond to the violation. Repeat offenders face higher fines or additional penalties. This crackdown serves as a reminder of the importance of obeying traffic rules for the safety and convenience of all road users in Lagos.