Traffic rules violation: Lagos issues stern warning to minibus drivers

The Lagos State Government has issued a stern warning to commercial bus operators, particularly drivers of minibuses, also known as ‘korope,’ emphasising the paramount need for adherence to traffic regulations

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa, warned  all korope operators to immediately desist from utilising unauthorized routes, maintaining that any act of defiance would attract sanctions.

He said the directive was in alignment with the government’s overarching objective to instil orderliness on Lagos roadways and ensure the uninterrupted flow of vehicular movement across the metropolis.

He further said that LASTMA operatives had been duly mandated to escalate enforcement strategies aimed at curbing reckless driving and unlawful practices that hinder urban mobility and disrupt the city’s traffic ecosystem.

Also, Giwa issued a directive against the indiscriminate occupation of public roadways for unauthorised parking and loading activities, aggravating traffic congestion and posing substantial risks to other road users. He emphasised that all commercial operators must restrict their operations to designated bus stops and terminals to avert unwarranted impediments to vehicular circulation.

“Illegal parking and flagrant route violations have metamorphosed into a grave menace in Lagos, particularly due to the arbitrary conduct of minibus operators. Such transgressions, which impede traffic fluidity and endanger public safety, will no longer be condoned. LASTMA has been expressly instructed to enforce absolute compliance with extant traffic laws and to apprehend defaulters accordingly.

“Furthermore, strict adherence to designated routes is imperative for security purposes, as it acts as a deterrent against unscrupulous elements who exploit commercial vehicles, particularly ‘korope,’ for illicit activities,” Giwa said.