Lagos orders psychiatric test for 18 one-way traffic offenders
The Lagos State Government has directed the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) to ensure that 18 motorists apprehended for driving against traffic flow (One-way) undergo mandatory psychiatric evaluation.
According to Adebayo Taofeek, LASTMA spokesman, the directive is part of a multi-faceted approach to restore road discipline, ensure public safety, and maintain order on Lagos roads.
He added that the move was a strategic effort to curb the menace of one-way traffic violations, pointing out that the measure was a preventive and restorative step, rather than a punitive one, aimed at rehabilitating errant drivers and deterring potential violators.
“LASTMA has finalized prosecutorial frameworks for the immediate arraignment of 18 vehicle owners recently apprehended for willfully driving against traffic flow. As part of their prosecution, each offender will be required to undergo a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to assess their cognitive fitness and behavioral disposition,” Adebayo said.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, also said that the initiative reflected global best practices in advanced traffic psychology and behavioral enforcement.
“The enforcement of psychiatric assessments is not intended to stigmatize or punish; rather, it is a necessary intervention designed to protect the general motoring public from individuals who exhibit reckless disregard for human life and lawful order,” Bakare-Oki said.
Adebayo noted in a statement on Sunday that despite ongoing public enlightenment campaigns and education efforts, a significant number of road users continued to disregard traffic laws, contributing to fatal collisions, congestion, and infrastructural degradation.
“The Lagos State Government is resolute in its commitment to ending this menace and ensuring that traffic laws are respected.
“The deployment of psychiatric testing serves as both a corrective instrument and a deterrent to those who may be tempted to emulate such hazardous behavior. This measure is more than just a traffic enforcement initiative,”
“It is a moral and civic imperative, reflecting the Lagos State Government’s vision to promote responsible motoring, safeguard human life, and maintain order on our roads.
“LASTMA reaffirms its dedication to the rule of law, public enlightenment, and sustained infrastructural harmony.
“All residents and road users are strongly advised to comply with traffic directives, embrace lawful conduct, and contribute to the creation of a safe, efficient, and sane Lagos.
“For immediate response to traffic-related issues, call LASTMA’s toll-free hotline: 080000527862,” the statement said.
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