The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) says it will commence mandatory and comprehensive psychiatric evaluations for 18 drivers recently arrested for driving against traffic.
In a statement, Adebayo Taofiq, LASTMA director of public affairs, said the directive from the Lagos state government is a “strategic effort to curb the menace of one-way traffic violations” in the state.
Olalekan Bakare-Oki, general manager of LASTMA, said the psychiatric tests aim to protect the public from “dangerously reckless” road users.
The agency said it has finalised prosecutorial frameworks for the immediate arraignment of the 18 vehicle owners apprehended for “wilfully driving against traffic flow”.
“In a strategic effort to curb the menace of one-way traffic violations in Lagos, the Lagos state government has directed the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) to ensure that 18 motorists apprehended for brazenly driving against traffic flow (one-way) undergo mandatory psychiatric evaluation,” the statement reads.
“This directive is part of a multi-faceted approach to restore road discipline, ensure public safety, and maintain order on Lagos roads.
“The Lagos state government views this measure as a preventive and restorative step, rather than a punitive one, aimed at rehabilitating errant drivers and deterring potential violators.
“As part of their prosecution, each offender will be required to undergo a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to assess their cognitive fitness and behavioural disposition.”
Bakare-Oki said that the initiative reflects global best practices in advanced traffic psychology and behavioural enforcement.
“The deployment of psychiatric testing serves as both a corrective instrument and a deterrent to those who may be tempted to emulate such hazardous behaviour,” he said.
“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.”
The LASTMA manager added that despite sustained public sensitisation, some drivers continue to act with impunity, causing crashes, traffic congestion and road damage.
Bakare-Oki reiterated that the Lagos government is determined to enforce traffic laws in order to prevent further loss of lives and ensure public safety.
