Following the protests recorded at the Lagos-Agege Motor road/PWD Ikeja axis by Commercial Bus operators against the officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), the Lagos State Government has appealed that they return to work, assuring that government will continue to partner with operators to improve commuting services in the State.
Addressing the aggrieved protesters, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa who assures that government will continue to prioritize safety on the roads, explained that the State Government is desirous of an effective transportation system.
He acknowledges the critical role commercial bus operators play in providing mobility for the citizenry.
In response to the demands by operators, the Special Adviser explained that enforcement of the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018 (as amended) will not be suspended for any reason, as it was designed to sanitize the roads and promote good road etiquette amongst motorists. He appealed to the operators to adhere to the law and avoid apprehension.
The Special Adviser also affirmed that the ‘Referral Note’ issued by LASTMA was designed to ensure fairness and justice by giving any traffic law violator the opportunity to appear at the Lagos State Mobile Court as against paying fines mentioned by the protesters.
Giwa also stressed that commercial bus drivers must adhere to their routes for safety and security reasons.
On the complaint of transport operators being regularly captured with cameras, the Special Adviser explained that the Traffic Management Solutions (TMS) Device was designed to reduce interface between traffic offenders and enforcers through real time capturing of infractions by the motoring public including commercial bus operators.
Giwa however, urged leadership of the various transport unions to educate and enlighten their members on the need to always conform with traffic rules and regulations, and Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law 2018 as amended, reiterating that the State Government will continue to review traffic interventions as required.
The Transportation Adviser promised to continue to engage the transport unions on safety of lives and property through voluntary compliance with traffic rules and regulations.