The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has deployed additional personnel and equipment across Lagos ahead of the Easter holidays, warning motorists against drunk driving and reckless behaviour.

The agency also confirmed it has launched an investigation into allegations that some of its officers extorted ₦100,000 from commercial drivers along the Coastal Road.

Easter travel: Increased traffic expected

Lagos typically sees a surge in movement during Easter, with commuters travelling for religious activities, leisure and family visits.

LASTMA’s General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said the agency is taking proactive steps to manage traffic and prevent accidents.

He urged motorists to exercise caution and comply with traffic laws.

“We appeal to all motorists to demonstrate exemplary conduct, exercise patience and obey all directives issued by Officers on duty,” he said.

“Safety is a collective obligation and every driver must understand that a single moment of impaired judgment whether through drunk driving or reckless speed may result in irreversible loss.”

Expanded deployment across Lagos

The agency said it has stationed officers across major highways, intersections, transport hubs, religious centres and recreational areas.

Tow trucks, traffic cones and safety barriers have also been deployed to respond quickly to breakdowns and road incidents.

“We have likewise deployed both high and medium capacity tow trucks… to restore order with minimal delay,” Mr Bakare-Oki added.

The move, according to the agency, is aimed at ensuring smooth movement of people, goods and services during the festive period.

Why it matters

Road accidents often increase during festive seasons due to speeding, alcohol consumption and traffic congestion.

Authorities say improved enforcement and public cooperation can reduce crashes and save lives.

Commercial drivers, fleet operators and transport unions have also been urged to educate their members on safe driving practices, including avoiding overloading and substance use.

Investigation into ₦100,000 extortion allegation

Separately, LASTMA said it is investigating claims circulating on social media that its officers demanded ₦100,000 from drivers before releasing impounded vehicles.

The agency described the allegation as serious and said it does not tolerate misconduct.

“LASTMA remains a disciplined, professional and ethically guided government institution that does not, under any circumstances, condone misconduct, abuse of office or extortion,” the statement said.

The agency has invited the accuser, identified as Tosin, to provide evidence at its headquarters in Oshodi.

It also pledged that any officer found guilty would face disciplinary action.

Public trust and accountability

LASTMA said the investigation reflects its commitment to transparency and accountability.

Residents have been encouraged to report traffic violations and misconduct through official channels.

For many Lagos commuters, the outcome of the investigation could influence public trust in traffic enforcement agencies.

What’s next

The agency says it will continue monitoring traffic conditions throughout Easter and respond to incidents in real time.

Findings from the extortion investigation are expected after a full review of evidence.

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has assured residents of smooth traffic flow across Lagos during the Eid-el-Fitr celebrations, while warning that violators of road rules will face strict penalties.

The agency’s General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said officials would enforce a “zero tolerance” policy against traffic offences before, during and after the festivities.

‘Zero tolerance’ for violations

In a statement issued to mark the end of Ramadan, Mr Bakare-Oki urged Muslim faithful to maintain the discipline and patience observed during the fasting period.

He said these values should extend to behaviour on the roads.

“While we celebrate this important occasion, all road users must exercise caution and strictly adhere to traffic rules. LASTMA will not tolerate any action that puts lives at risk or hinders the free flow of traffic.”

Motorists were warned against reckless driving, illegal parking, route violations, unauthorised off-loading, and driving against traffic.

Why it matters

Eid-el-Fitr is one of the busiest travel periods in Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub, often marked by increased road congestion due to religious gatherings and social visits.

Traffic management during such periods is critical to reducing accidents, easing movement, and maintaining public safety.

Transport analysts say effective coordination can also reduce economic losses linked to gridlock in the city.

Traffic plan and deployment

LASTMA said it has developed a comprehensive traffic management strategy to handle the expected surge in vehicular movement.

Officials have been deployed to highways, major junctions, and high-activity areas across Lagos.

Mr Bakare-Oki said the agency would run round-the-clock monitoring and collaborate with security and emergency services to respond quickly to incidents.

Call for public cooperation

The agency urged residents to cooperate with traffic officials and comply with road safety regulations.

“As we celebrate with our Muslim brothers and sisters, we urge all residents to prioritise safety, respect authority and contribute to a peaceful and congestion-free environment,” Mr Bakare-Oki added.

What’s next

Authorities say enforcement will continue throughout the festive period, with a focus on preventing congestion and ensuring safety on major roads.

Residents are advised to plan journeys early and avoid peak travel times where possible.

Reforms introduced by Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki at the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) are redefining how traffic is managed across Nigeria’s commercial capital.

Officials say the changes focus on technology, faster emergency response and improved professionalism among traffic officers.

Lagos, a megacity of more than 20 million people, depends heavily on efficient movement of goods and commuters. Congestion disrupts businesses, delays emergency services and costs the economy billions annually.

Bakare-Oki, the agency’s General Manager, says the reforms were designed to move traffic management from reactive enforcement to preventive coordination.

“We recognised that a megacity like Lagos demands intelligent, technology-driven traffic solutions. Our focus has been on modernisation, professionalism and strategic collaboration,” he said.

Why it matters

Traffic congestion in Lagos affects productivity, fuel consumption and public safety.

Digital upgrade and real-time coordination

Under the reforms, LASTMA has deployed upgraded real-time communication systems linking field officers to central command centres.

Manual documentation processes have been replaced with digital reporting platforms, aimed at improving transparency and operational tracking.

Officials say congestion-prone corridors are now identified through data analysis, allowing strategic deployment before peak-hour traffic builds up.

A senior official at the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) welcomed the coordination.

“Joint communication platforms enhance our ability to respond quickly and reduce road fatalities,” the official said.

Emergency response overhaul

The agency says it has positioned rapid-response units along critical routes to reduce delays in clearing road incidents.

Collaboration has also expanded with the Lagos State Ambulance Service (LASAMBUS), Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Lagos State Fire and Rescue Service, and the Nigeria Police Force.

Authorities say the integrated response structure has reduced secondary crashes and improved survival rates in emergencies.

Professionalism and training reforms

Beyond technology, the agency says it has strengthened training through partnerships with the Lagos State Law Enforcement Training Institute (LETI) and the Nigerian Police Training School.

Training modules now include ethical conduct, emotional intelligence and digital literacy.

Bakare-Oki says internal monitoring mechanisms have also been reinforced.

“Professional integrity is non-negotiable. Transparency and accountability are central to restoring public confidence,” he said.

Public engagement and awareness

The agency has increased public enlightenment campaigns through media and stakeholder engagements.

What’s next?

Lagos continues to expand, with ongoing infrastructure projects and rising vehicle ownership.

For now, officials maintain that Lagos traffic management reforms mark a structural shift in how the city approaches mobility governance.