In a strategic effort to curb the menace of one-way traffic violations in Lagos, the Lagos State Government has directed the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) to ensure that 18 motorists apprehended for brazenly driving against traffic flow (One-way) undergo mandatory psychiatric evaluation.

According to Mr. Adebayo Taofiq, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment at LASTMA, the directive is a comprehensive strategy to revive road discipline, prioritize public safety, and uphold order on Lagos roads. The Lagos State Government sees this initiative as a proactive and corrective measure, focusing on rehabilitating reckless drivers and discouraging potential offenders.

LASTMA has finalized prosecutorial frameworks for the immediate arraignment of 18 vehicle owners recently apprehended for willfully driving against traffic flow. As part of their prosecution, each offender will be required to undergo a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to assess their cognitive fitness and behavioral disposition.

According to the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, this initiative reflects global best practices in advanced traffic psychology and behavioral enforcement.

“The enforcement of psychiatric assessments is not intended to stigmatize or punish,” Mr. Bakare-Oki emphasized. “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.”

Despite ongoing public enlightenment campaigns and education efforts, a significant number of road users continue to disregard traffic laws, contributing to fatal collisions, congestion, and infrastructural degradation. The Lagos State Government is resolute in its commitment to ending this menace and ensuring that traffic laws are respected.

The deployment of psychiatric testing serves as both a corrective instrument and a deterrent to those who may be tempted to emulate such hazardous behavior. “This measure is more than just a traffic enforcement initiative,” stated Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki. “It is a moral and civic imperative, reflecting the Lagos State Government’s vision to promote responsible motoring, safeguard human life, and maintain order on our roads.”

LASTMA reaffirms its dedication to the rule of law, public enlightenment, and sustained infrastructural harmony. All residents and road users are strongly advised to comply with traffic directives, embrace lawful conduct, and contribute to the creation of a safe, efficient, and sane Lagos.

For immediate response to traffic-related issues, call LASTMA’s toll-free hotline: 080000527862.