The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has issued a firm warning to residents, community leaders, religious institutions, event planners and organisers of socio-cultural activities against obstructing access roads during the festive season.
The agency described as “worrisome” the recurring practice of celebrants, worship centres, event venues and street revellers converting public roads into private extensions of their activities, resulting in gridlock, safety concerns and avoidable hardship for motorists.
Speaking at the weekend during an inspection tour of major traffic-prone corridors across the state, the General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, restated the agency’s determination to ensure free movement of vehicles, persons and goods throughout the high-traffic season.
He disclosed that LASTMA would intensify surveillance, increase operational visibility and deploy proactive control strategies to prevent illegal parking, suppress traffic violations and swiftly clear obstructions, including broken-down vehicles.
Bakare-Oki urged residents and event organisers to obtain necessary permits, ensure proper logistical planning and cooperate fully with LASTMA personnel to guarantee a safe, orderly and congestion-free festive period.
He warned that the Agency would not hesitate to enforce the law against any individual or establishment that violates traffic regulations or hinders public mobility.
Reinforcing the warning, Adebayo Taofiq, Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment, LASTMA, cautioned owners of event centres, lounges, clubs and recreational facilities, particularly in Ikoyi, Victoria Island, Lekki, Shongotedo and other high-traffic zones, to provide adequate parking for patrons or face sanctions.
“Roadways are public assets and cannot be commandeered for private parties or religious gatherings. Any facility whose customers spill vehicles onto major roads will be subjected to strict enforcement and possible closure,” Adebayo said.
He added that LASTMA has strengthened its emergency response system for timely intervention in traffic incidents and reminded motorists that the agency’s toll-free hotline 080000527862 remains active for urgent assistance.
