LASTMA to adopt alternative approach against traffic offenders

In what aims at ensuring free flow of traffic across the metropolis, officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) have been directed to adopt the system of booking traffic offenders, rather than apprehending their vehicles.

Oluseyi Whenu, permanent secretary, the state ministry of transportation, handed over the directive to the officials while briefing top echelon of LASTMA on government’s new policy thrust in the transportation sector.

While government appreciates the invaluable contribution of the traffic managers to the current traffic situation in the state, more emphasis should be placed on flawless flow of traffic, he said.

“That is the minimum we owe the people of the state,” he said, adding that LASTMA should synergise with other security agencies to ensure that the Lagos Road Traffic Law 2012 was enforced.

Whenu assured that a more perfect traffic management and documentation procedure was being put in place where traffic offenders were booked and given a grace period for payment and defaulters apprehended at home through the information on the motor vehicle database.

“Since LASTMA officials are a reflection of the state government, they should ensure that their activities add value to the government’s covenant with Lagos residents to make life easier for them,” he said.