LASTMA Warns Against Road Obstruction Ahead Of Festive Season

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has issued a firm warning to residents, community leaders, religious organisations, event planners and organisers of social activities to desist from blocking access roads before, during and after events scheduled for the forthcoming festive season.

The agency expressed concern over the recurring practice by celebrants, worship centres, event organisers and street revellers who routinely obstruct major road corridors, causing avoidable gridlock, safety risks and significant inconvenience to motorists.

In a statement signed by Adebayo Taofiq, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment, LASTMA reminded the public that all roadways, whether major routes or inner streets, are public assets and must not be appropriated for private parties, religious gatherings or similar activities.

Owners of event centres, lounges, clubs and other recreational venues, particularly those in high-traffic areas such as Ikoyi, Victoria Island, Lekki, Shongotedo and surrounding communities, were also directed to provide adequate and well-managed parking for their patrons.

Centres whose guests cause spillover parking onto major roads will face strict enforcement actions, heavy penalties and possible closure in line with existing traffic laws.

LASTMA General Manager, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, gave the warning during an inspection tour of major traffic-prone areas across the state at the weekend.

He reiterated the agency’s commitment to ensuring free movement of vehicles, people, goods and services throughout the festive period, which typically sees increased celebrations and heavier traffic.

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Bakare-Oki confirmed that LASTMA officers will heighten surveillance, increase visibility and deploy proactive traffic management measures to prevent road obstructions, curtail illegal parking and enforce compliance with traffic regulations.

He urged residents and event organisers to act responsibly by securing necessary approvals, putting proper logistics in place and cooperating fully with LASTMA and other relevant agencies to ensure a safe and congestion-free festive season.

The General Manager emphasised that the agency will not hesitate to enforce the law against anyone or any establishment found obstructing traffic or infringing on the public’s right to free movement.

He also announced that LASTMA has strengthened its operational structure to guarantee quick response to emergencies, traffic incidents and the swift removal of broken-down vehicles across the state.

LASTMA’s toll-free emergency line, 080000527862, remains open for motorists requiring urgent traffic assistance.