Lagos Governor Sanwo-Olu Pledges To Prosecute Attackers Of LASTMA Officers.
Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has vowed to take decisive action against individuals who assault officers of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), promising prosecution to the fullest extent of the law. The announcement was made during the Second Lagos Traffic Conference, held on Tuesday to mark LASTMA’s 25th anniversary, with the theme “Enhancing Traffic Efficiency and Safety on Lagos Roads: Challenges, Opportunities and Innovations.”
Speaking through his deputy, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, the governor condemned the rising incidents of violence against LASTMA personnel, some of which have tragically resulted in fatalities. “We will not tolerate any form of aggression towards our traffic officers. Attacking LASTMA personnel is a criminal offence and will be treated as such,” Sanwo-Olu declared. He paid tribute to the officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty, describing their sacrifices as a stark reminder of the need for greater public cooperation and stronger protections.
The governor highlighted the critical role LASTMA plays in maintaining order on Lagos’ bustling roads, describing their uniforms as “the thin yellow line that stands firmly between order and chaos.” He praised the agency’s dedication, noting that their commitment and professionalism have been instrumental in improving traffic management and ensuring the safety of millions of commuters daily. To honour their efforts, Sanwo-Olu announced plans to transform LASTMA into a technologically advanced agency, with investments in artificial intelligence, automated number plate recognition, and drone surveillance to enhance traffic management and incident response.
The conference also featured a keynote address by Mr Sridhar Uttara, President of Infotran, a US-based engineering consulting firm, who urged Lagos to establish a Unified Mobility Control Centre and expand its IT systems on key corridors. He advocated for training LASTMA officers in AI and data tools, as well as investing in smart mobility labs to address the challenges of 21st-century urban mobility. Dr Kayode Opeifa, Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, also commended LASTMA’s unique approach, describing it as a “master stroke of public policy” that balances enforcement with public pride. He expressed sorrow over the loss of officers, particularly those killed while working to keep areas like Apapa safe.
Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to prosecuting offenders builds on his long-standing support for LASTMA. Since taking office in 2019, he has introduced measures to improve the agency’s operations, including doubling officers’ allowances and providing equipment such as raincoats and repaired vehicles. He has also consistently warned against corruption, urging officers to remain professional and courteous while enforcing traffic laws without fear or favour.
The governor’s pledge has been widely welcomed by LASTMA officials and stakeholders, who have long called for stronger measures to protect traffic officers from harassment and violence. The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, unveiled a 20-year policy compendium at the conference, which will serve as operational guidelines to further streamline the agency’s work. As Lagos continues to grow as a megacity, Sanwo-Olu’s administration remains focused on ensuring safer roads and supporting the men and women who keep the city moving.
