Dare Babalola
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has apprehended a bullion van driver for driving against traffic in violation of Lagos State traffic laws, reinforcing the state government’s zero-tolerance stance on traffic lawlessness.
The driver, identified as Daniel Ikede, was intercepted after allegedly driving against the legally designated flow of traffic while conveying cash from a First Bank branch along the Chevron axis towards Ajah.
The act contravenes provisions of the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018, which expressly prohibits one-way driving due to its grave safety implications.
According LASTMA, Ikede admitted during interrogation that he drove in the prohibited direction while following a police escort vehicle that had accompanied the bullion van from its point of departure.
While the van and its driver were successfully apprehended, members of the security escort reportedly fled the scene, evading arrest.
Reacting to the incident, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa, condemned the violation, describing it as a reckless display of impunity and an abuse of perceived privilege.
He stressed that no individual, vehicle or institution is exempt from compliance with traffic regulations, regardless of status or the presence of security escorts.
“One-way driving remains one of the most dangerous traffic offences on Lagos roads, often leading to needless loss of lives, destruction of property and severe traffic disruptions,” Giwa warned, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to firm and impartial enforcement of traffic laws under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq, said the arrest underscores the authority’s determination to ensure road safety across the state.
“Compliance with traffic laws is mandatory and non-negotiable for all motorists—private, commercial, corporate and those with security escorts.
“Any attempt to flout established regulations will be met with decisive enforcement actions, in line with the state government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and ensuring seamless mobility across Lagos,” Taofiq said.
He confirmed that the apprehended driver and the bullion van have been taken into custody and will be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
