By Modupe Gbadeyanka
Commercial bus operators in Lagos State have been warned against route violations and illegal road parking across the metropolis or risk being apprehended to face the full wrath of the law.
This warning was given by the Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transportation, Mr Sola Giwa, who said the government would no longer tolerate the excesses of the commercial bus drivers, especially those operating mini buses, colloquially known as Korope.
In a statement issued by the Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Mr Adebayo Taofiq, the Governor’s aide emphasized the paramount necessity of unwavering adherence to traffic regulations, with particular regard to unauthorized route deviations.
According to him, the new directive is in alignment with the government’s overarching initiative to instil orderliness on Lagos roadways and ensure the uninterrupted flow of vehicular movement across the metropolis.
He further articulated that LASTMA operatives have been duly mandated to escalate enforcement strategies aimed at curbing reckless driving and unlawful practices that hinder urban mobility and disrupt the city’s traffic ecosystem.
Additionally, Mr Giwa issued a categorical directive against the indiscriminate occupation of public roadways for unauthorized parking and loading activities, which significantly aggravate traffic congestion and pose substantial risks to other road users.
He emphasized that, moving forward, all commercial operators must restrict their operations to designated bus stops and terminals to avert unwarranted impediments to vehicular circulation.
“Illegal parking and flagrant route violations have metamorphosed into a grave menace in Lagos, particularly due to the arbitrary conduct of mini bus operators. Such transgressions, which impede traffic fluidity and endanger public safety, will no longer be condoned.
“LASTMA has been expressly instructed to enforce absolute compliance with extant traffic laws and to apprehend defaulters accordingly,” Mr Giwa asserted.
“Furthermore, strict adherence to designated routes is imperative for security purposes, as it acts as a deterrent against unscrupulous elements who exploit commercial vehicles, particularly Korope, for illicit activities,” he added.
In light of these directives, LASTMA enjoins all road users, especially commercial transport operators, to cooperate fully with traffic enforcement authorities by adhering strictly to stipulated regulations and fostering a culture of responsible driving.
