Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) says it has ordered mandatory psychiatric evaluations for 18 motorists recently apprehended for driving against traffic flow.
According to LASTMA, this represents a bold move to curb the rising menace of one-way driving violations in the state.
The authority said the drivers were arrested in different parts of the state.
LASTMA) said the decision to conduct psychiatric test for the drivers forms part of a broader strategy to restore sanity on Lagos roads, promote public safety, and discourage dangerous driving behavior.
A statement issued by LASTMA’s Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment, Mr. Adebayo Taofiq, said the offenders will be arraigned immediately.
“Psychiatric assessments will be conducted as part of the legal process to determine their cognitive and behavioral fitness,” he said.
Also speaking on the initiative, the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, emphasized that the psychiatric evaluations are not punitive but preventive and corrective.
He said : “The enforcement of psychiatric assessments is not intended to stigmatize or punish.
“Rather, it is a necessary intervention to protect road users from individuals who show reckless disregard for safety and lawful order.”
He noted that despite continuous public education campaigns, some motorists continue to ignore traffic laws, often leading to deadly crashes, increased congestion, and damage to infrastructure.
“This measure aligns with global best practices in traffic psychology and behavioral enforcement,” Bakare-Oki explained.
“It is both a deterrent and a means of rehabilitation,” he added.
Lagos State government said it remains committed to using a mix of education, enforcement, and behavioral reform to tackle traffic infractions and promote responsible motoring across the state.
“LASTMA reiterated its dedication to upholding the rule of law, enhancing road safety, and maintaining order on Lagos roads.
“Residents were urged to obey traffic rules and report any infractions using the agency’s toll-free hotline: 080000527862,” the statement said.
(vitalnewsngr.com)
