LASTMA Warns Against Blocking Access Roads Ahead of Festive Season

Sunday Ehigiator 

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has issued a firm warning to residents, community leaders, religious organisations, event planners and social groups against obstructing access roads during the forthcoming festive season.

In a statement yesterday, signed by the Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq, the agency expressed concern over what it described as a recurring and troubling practice by celebrants, worship centres, event organisers and street revellers who convert public road corridors into spaces for private events, resulting in avoidable gridlock, safety risks and undue hardship for motorists.

It emphasised that all roads; major or inner streets; remain public assets that must not be taken over for social, religious or recreational activities under any circumstances.

The agency also directed owners of event centres, lounges and clubs, particularly those operating in densely populated areas such as Ikoyi, Victoria Island, Lekki, Shongotedo and other adjoining communities, to ensure proper and sufficient parking arrangements for their patrons.

It warned that establishments whose guests regularly spill onto major roads with indiscriminate parking will face strict enforcement actions, heavy penalties and possible closure as provided under existing traffic laws.

According to the statement, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, gave the warning over the weekend during an inspection tour of major traffic-prone corridors in Lagos. 

“He was accompanied by the agency’s top management officials.

“Bakare-Oki assured that LASTMA remains committed to maintaining free movement of vehicles, people, goods and services throughout the festive season, a period typically associated with increased celebrations and higher traffic volumes.

“He noted that the agency will intensify surveillance, enhance operational visibility and deploy proactive traffic management measures to prevent road obstructions, curb illegal parking and suppress all traffic violations.

“The General Manager urged residents and event organisers to act responsibly by securing necessary approvals, putting proper logistics in place and cooperating fully with LASTMA personnel and other relevant agencies to ensure a safe and congestion-free festive period.

“He reiterated that LASTMA would not hesitate to apply the full weight of the law against any person, group or establishment found flouting traffic regulations or infringing on the public’s right to unobstructed movement.

“Bakare-Oki added that LASTMA has strengthened its operational framework to guarantee rapid response to emergencies, traffic incidents and the quick removal of broken-down vehicles across Lagos.

“He reminded motorists and members of the public that LASTMA’s toll-free emergency hotline, 080000527862, remains active and accessible for urgent traffic assistance.”