By Imisioluwa Afunmiso
The General Manager of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Olalekan Bakare-Oki, has urged motorists across Lagos to avoid drunk driving, excessive speeding, and other unsafe road practices during the Easter festivities.
Bakare-Oki issued the warning in a statement on Sunday, noting that the Easter period typically sees heavy movement, which places extra pressure on the state’s transport system.
He cautioned that irresponsible driving behaviors, such as driving under the influence of alcohol, dangerous overtaking, and reckless speeding, could lead to avoidable accidents, loss of lives, and the destruction of property.
He emphasized that no festivity should compromise road safety or endanger other road users.
To manage the anticipated surge in traffic, Bakare-Oki disclosed that LASTMA has deployed additional officers to major highways, intersections, transport hubs, central business districts, recreational centers, and religious venues across the state.
LASTMA personnels have been directed to intensify monitoring, ensure strict compliance with traffic regulations, and respond promptly to any disruptions.
The agency has also positioned high- and medium-capacity tow trucks, traffic cones, safety barriers, and other operational equipment at strategic locations to enable the swift clearance of broken-down vehicles.
Bakare-Oki stated that these moves reflect LASTMA’s commitment to ensuring the seamless movement of people and goods while safeguarding lives during the festive period.
“We appeal to all motorists to demonstrate patience, obey traffic rules, and cooperate with officers on duty. Safety is a collective responsibility, and a moment of recklessness can result in irreversible consequences,” he said.
He further called on commercial drivers, transport unions, and logistics managers to sensitize their members to the dangers of overloading and substance abuse.
The LASTMA Chief further extended Easter greetings to residents and encouraged the public to report traffic violations and emergencies to the appropriate authorities for prompt intervention.