The Lagos State Government has directed the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) to ensure that 18 motorists apprehended for driving against traffic flow (one-way) undergo mandatory psychiatric evaluation.
The move is part of a strategic effort to curb the menace of one-way traffic violations in Lagos.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday in Lagos.
According to him, the directive is aimed at restoring road discipline, ensuring public safety, and maintaining order on Lagos roads.
The Lagos State Government views the measure as a preventive and restorative step, rather than a punitive one, aimed at rehabilitating errant drivers and deterring potential violators.
LASTMA has finalised prosecutorial frameworks for the immediate arraignment of the 18 vehicle owners recently apprehended for willfully driving against traffic flow.
As part of their prosecution, each offender would be required to undergo a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to assess their cognitive fitness and behavioral disposition.
The initiative reflected global best practices in advanced traffic psychology and behavioral enforcement.
Bakare-Oki noted that despite ongoing public enlightenment campaigns and education efforts, a significant number of road users continued to disregard traffic laws, contributing to fatal collisions, congestion, and infrastructural degradation.
He noted the state government was resolute in its commitment to ending this menace and ensuring that traffic laws are respected.
LASTMA reaffirmed its dedication to the rule of law, public enlightenment, and sustained infrastructural harmony.
The agency advises all residents and road users to comply with traffic directives, embrace lawful conduct, and contribute to the creation of a safe, efficient, and sane Lagos.
“The enforcement of psychiatric assessment is not intended to stigmatize or punish, rather, it is a necessary intervention designed to protect the general motoring public from individuals who exhibit reckless disregard for human life and lawful order.” – Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, General Manager, LASTMA.
