Table of Contents
- Warning Against Indiscriminate Parking
- Access Roads Must Remain Clear
- Traffic Management During Celebrations
- Appeal for Responsible Behavior
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, known as LASTMA, has warned drivers against illegal parking and obstructing roads during the New Year’s Eve celebrations throughout the state.
This warning was issued on Sunday by the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, in a statement released in Lagos.
Bakare-Oki emphasized that access roads near places of worship, markets, nightclubs, event centers, and other major gathering spots must remain clear, noting that violations will not be tolerated.
He explained that New Year’s Eve typically sees a significant increase in both vehicle and pedestrian traffic, often exacerbated by poorly coordinated activities such as carnivals, roadside festivities, street parties, and spontaneous celebrations.
“While acknowledging the cultural, religious, and communal significance of these events, LASTMA condemns the improper use of public roads, including their conversion into makeshift parking areas or informal event venues,” Bakare-Oki stated.
“Such actions are serious violations of traffic regulations with significant consequences for public safety, emergency response, and urban mobility,” he added.
The LASTMA chief urged drivers to refrain from leaving vehicles on roadways, shoulders, medians, pedestrian walkways, and essential access routes leading to churches, mosques, and social centers.
He also cautioned organizers and participants of carnivals, street parties, and other festive gatherings against blocking highways, inner roads, or access points without proper authorization and coordination with relevant authorities.
In anticipation of traffic issues, Bakare-Oki announced that the agency has implemented an enhanced traffic management, monitoring, and enforcement plan to ensure smooth vehicle movement and public safety during the celebrations.
According to him, trained traffic officers, supported by rapid response units and advance surveillance teams under the “LASTMA 24-Hour Night Gangs” initiative, will be strategically positioned at identified traffic hotspots across the state.
“This will guarantee smooth vehicular mobility, rigorously enforce parking regulations, and swiftly address any illegal obstructions to traffic flow,” he stated.
He further warned that traffic violators would face strict penalties in accordance with existing laws, without exceptions.
Bakare-Oki appealed to religious organizations, market associations, nightclub operators, and event planners to act responsibly by providing adequate parking facilities and implementing internal traffic control measures to prevent congestion from affecting public roads.
He also urged residents and visitors to cooperate with traffic officials, adhere to all traffic directives, and demonstrate patience and restraint as Lagos residents welcome the New Year.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the consequences of illegal parking during celebrations?
Traffic violators will face strict penalties as per existing laws, highlighting the importance of adhering to traffic regulations.
How can drivers avoid traffic issues during New Year's Eve?
Drivers are encouraged to refrain from leaving vehicles on public roads and to cooperate with traffic officials to ensure smooth traffic flow.
What should event organizers do to help manage traffic?
Event organizers should provide adequate parking arrangements and implement internal traffic control measures to minimize congestion on public roads.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
