Dare Babalola
The Lagos State Government has ordered 18 drivers caught violating one-way traffic rules to undergo psychiatric evaluation.
Adebayo Taofiq, the Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) said this in a statement on Sunday.
Taofiq said that the motorists were apprehended for driving against the traffic flow.
The director said the decision is a strategic effort to curb the menace of one-way traffic violations in Lagos, adding that the order will ensure public safety, and maintain order on the state roads.
“The Lagos State Government views this measure as a preventive and restorative step, rather than a punitive one, aimed at rehabilitating errant drivers and deterring potential violators.
“LASTMA has finalized prosecutorial frameworks for the immediate arraignment of 18 vehicle owners recently apprehended for willfully driving against traffic flow. As part of their prosecution, each offender will be required to undergo a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to assess their cognitive fitness and behavioral disposition.”
On his part, the General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, said the initiative reflects global best practices in advanced traffic psychology and behavioral enforcement.
He said, “The enforcement of psychiatric assessments is not intended to stigmatize or punish. Rather, it is a necessary intervention designed to protect the general motoring public from individuals who exhibit reckless disregard for human life and lawful order.”
“Despite ongoing public enlightenment campaigns and education efforts, a significant number of road users continue to disregard traffic laws, contributing to fatal collisions, congestion, and infrastructural degradation. The Lagos State Government is resolute in its commitment to ending this menace and ensuring that traffic laws are respected.
“The deployment of psychiatric testing serves as both a corrective instrument and a deterrent to those who may be tempted to emulate such hazardous behavior. This measure is more than just a traffic enforcement initiative. It is a moral and civic imperative, reflecting the Lagos State Government’s vision to promote responsible motoring, safeguard human life, and maintain order on our roads.”
LASTMA reaffirms its dedication to the rule of law, public enlightenment, and sustained infrastructural harmony.
“All residents and road users are strongly advised to comply with traffic directives, embrace lawful conduct, and contribute to the creation of a safe, efficient, and sane Lagos,” the statement added.
