The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) announced that its Traffic Management Solution (TMS) devices successfully recorded 20,000 vehicles for various traffic violations in 2024.
Offences ranged from illegal parking and obstructing traffic to unauthorised passenger pick-ups and drop-offs at non-designated bus stops.
Introduced in July 2023, the TMS system aims to streamline traffic law enforcement and enhance road management in Lagos.
Taofiq Adebayo, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment at LASTMA, revealed that the agency physically apprehended 16,824 vehicles in 2024, including 8,535 commercial vehicles. This marks a significant drop from the 22,927 vehicles (15,025 commercial) apprehended in 2023, showing reductions of 6,103 total and 6,490 commercial vehicles.
Adebayo attributed this improvement to LASTMA’s ongoing public enlightenment campaign.
Adebayo highlighted that nearly all of LASTMA’s 4,335 personnel received training in emotional intelligence, work ethics, and human rights as of December 2024. This initiative has contributed to more effective and ethical traffic enforcement.
On fines, Adebayo clarified that LASTMA does not directly impose penalties. Instead, vehicles flagged for infractions are issued referral notices to the Lagos State Mobile Court, where substantial evidence, including video or photographic proof, is presented. The magistrate determines the fine, which is then paid into government accounts.
LASTMA has implemented measures to prevent motorists from being defrauded by unauthorised individuals.
The agency operates a toll-free helpline to assist the public and has taken disciplinary action against erring officers.
In 2024, 26 officers faced sanctions, including dismissal, demotion, or suspension, for misconduct.
The TMS platform, accessible through a mobile app, uses real-time cameras to document traffic violations. This evidence-based approach allows LASTMA officers to review incidents and ensures that drivers have the option to legally contest allegations.
