LASTMA CRACKS DOWN ON ILLEGAL GARAGES, IMPOUNDS 40 VEHICLES OVER ROAD OBSTRUCTION

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Forty automobiles have been seized by the Lagos State Government due to illegal garage operations and road blockages.

The action is part of efforts to “restore order and ensure the free flow of traffic,” according to a statement released on Friday by Adebayo Taofiq, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department at the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).

Out of all the cars, twenty-five are private, while the remaining ones are commercial. They were confined to the Lagos neighborhoods of Oyingbo, Ijora, and Idumota.

“Illegal garages have been a significant challenge in our quest to maintain a seamless traffic flow in Lagos,” the statement quoted the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation Sola Giwa as saying.

“These impoundments send a strong message to all offenders that the state will not tolerate activities that disrupt public order and endanger the lives of our citizens. Our goal is to create a safe and orderly environment for all road users and this action is a crucial step in that direction.”

LASTMA said the areas where the cars were impounded are “known hotspots for traffic congestion” which is linked to unauthorised parking and the establishment of makeshift garages

“These activities not only obstruct the free movement of vehicles but also pose safety risks to pedestrians. LASTMA’s intervention aims to clear these bottlenecks and enhance the overall traffic situation in these critical areas,” the traffic management agency said.

LASTMA said the move will be extended to other parts of the commercial nerve centre “where illegal garages and related activities are prevalent”.

Giwa called on vehicle owners and operators to follow the state’s traffic regulations and cooperate with authorities to avoid sanctions.