- LASTMA confirmed that one-way driving remains widespread despite ongoing campaigns on safety and lawful use of roads in Lagos.
- Bakare-Oki stressed that psychiatric testing aims to prevent danger by identifying unfit drivers, not to stigmatise or shame offenders.
The Lagos state government has ordered psychiatric evaluation for 18 motorists caught driving against traffic, commonly referred to as one-way driving.
The directive forms part of a broader traffic enforcement strategy aimed at promoting sanity on Lagos roads and safeguarding lives.
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) said the suspects were apprehended during recent operations across the state.
According to the agency, the affected drivers violated traffic regulations in a reckless and deliberate manner, endangering other road users.
Beyond prosecution, LASTMA said the motorists will undergo psychiatric assessment to ascertain their mental fitness to operate vehicles on public roads.
General manager of LASTMA, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, explained that the policy aligns with international best practices in road safety psychology.
He said that “the enforcement of psychiatric assessments is not intended to stigmatise 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.”
He noted that one-way driving continues to pose a major threat in Lagos despite sustained public awareness campaigns.
The agency warned that the illegal practice often leads to traffic gridlock, infrastructure damage, and fatal accidents.
Bakare-Oki stated that the new approach is both corrective and preventive, aimed at behavioural change and deterrence.
He said added “this initiative goes beyond traffic enforcement.
“It reflects the state’s vision to safeguard lives, promote responsible motoring, and maintain order on our roads.”