Lagos takes Justice to Streets, warns against traffic, environmental violations

The Lagos State Government has intensified efforts to promote compliance with traffic and environmental laws, as residents across key parts of the metropolis were sensitised through a public enlightenment campaign led by the Special Offences (Mobile) Court.

The exercise, held on Friday, January 30, 2025, took place at the Lagos Safety Arena and extended to strategic locations including Oshodi, Iyana Ipaja, Ojota and Ikorodu.

It formed part of the State’s broader drive to reduce avoidable infractions and strengthen civic responsibility through public education.

The sensitisation programme, themed “Justice on Wheels: Know the Law, Keep Lagos Clean, Safe and Orderly,” focused on common traffic and environmental offences such as driving against traffic, misuse of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lanes and obstruction of public spaces.

Speaking during the exercise, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Lawal Pedro, who was represented by the Director, Citizens’ Rights, Mr Ogunsanya Jonathan, reaffirmed the commitment of the Lagos State Government to a justice system that is accessible, corrective and people-centred.

According to him, the Special Offences (Mobile) Court serves not only as an enforcement mechanism but also as a platform for educating the public on their rights, obligations and the consequences of breaching the law.

He stressed that proactive sensitisation remains a key strategy for preventing violations and promoting voluntary compliance.

Earlier, the Coordinator of the Special Offences (Mobile) Court, Mr Olufemi Adekunle, said the initiative was designed to close the information gap between the justice system and the public by taking legal education directly to residents.

He noted that improved understanding of the law would naturally lead to better compliance and reduce the need for punitive enforcement.

Also speaking, the Chairman, Lagos State Environmental Sanitation and Special Offences, Mr Adetayo Akerele, described environmental cleanliness and traffic discipline as critical pillars of public safety in Lagos.

He warned that offences such as road obstruction, abuse of BRT lanes and one-way driving undermine the State’s efforts to maintain order and safety.

The exercise featured interactive engagements with commuters and traders at bus stops, distribution of informational fliers, and practical explanations of common offences and penalties handled by the Mobile Court.

Residents were urged to obey traffic regulations, maintain environmental cleanliness and conduct their daily activities within the confines of the law, as the Ministry of Justice continues to push for a safer, cleaner and more orderly Lagos.