LASTMA Arrests Bullion Van Driver for Flouting One-Way Traffic Law in Lagos
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has issued a stern warning to motorists against driving against traffic, describing it as one of the most dangerous violations on Lagos roads. This caution follows the recent arrest of a bullion van driver who was caught flouting one-way traffic regulations along the Chevron–Ajah axis of the state.
Details of the Traffic Violation and Arrest
According to an official statement released on Tuesday, January 21, 2026, via LASTMA's X handle and signed by the Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, Adebayo Taofiq, the driver, identified as Daniel Ikede, was apprehended for unlawfully driving against the legally designated flow of traffic. The offence is prohibited under the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018.
The incident occurred while the bullion van was moving from the First Bank branch in the Chevron area en route to Ajah. Upon interrogation, Ikede admitted to driving in the prohibited direction while trailing a police escort vehicle that had accompanied the bullion van from its point of departure. Although the bullion van was successfully apprehended through prompt intervention, members of the escort team allegedly absconded from the scene, evading arrest.
Government Reaction and Enforcement Stance
Reacting to the incident, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa, expressed strong displeasure over the violation. He described it as "a reckless exhibition of impunity and an intolerable abuse of perceived privilege." Giwa emphasized that "no vehicle, individual or institution is above the law, irrespective of status, operational function or the presence of security escorts."
He further cautioned that driving against traffic, commonly referred to as one-way driving, "remains one of the most lethal traffic violations on Lagos roads," often resulting in avoidable fatalities, destruction of property, and disruption of vehicular flow. Giwa reiterated that the Lagos State Government, under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, would continue to enforce traffic regulations "with firmness, impartiality and zero tolerance for lawlessness."
LASTMA's Enforcement and Prosecution Procedures
LASTMA confirmed that the apprehended driver and the bullion van have been taken into custody and will be prosecuted in accordance with the law. The authority reminded all motorists, including private, commercial, corporate, and security-assisted vehicles, that compliance with traffic laws is "mandatory and non-negotiable." The statement added that "any attempt to flout established regulations will be met with decisive enforcement actions, in line with the state’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and ensuring seamless mobility across the metropolis."
Court Process and Retraining for Offenders
In an interview, the General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, explained the agency's strict enforcement measures against motorists who violate traffic laws, particularly offences such as one-way driving. He noted that drivers arrested during major enforcement operations are subjected to court processes and compulsory retraining before their vehicles are released.
"Whenever we carry out massive physical enforcement, which we do quarterly, sometimes I lead them myself. Once we capture or impound vehicles for major offences, such as one-way driving, we issue court referrals," Bakare-Oki said. He added that the Lagos State Mobile Court serves as the final authority in determining penalties for offenders, and after judgment, fines are issued. Motorists are also referred to the Lagos State Drivers’ Institute for training before their vehicles are released.
List of Offences That Could Lead to Jail Terms
LASTMA has previously released a list of offences that could attract jail terms for motorists in Lagos State. Under the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018, activities such as eating, drinking, or smoking while driving are punishable offences that could land motorists in jail. This highlights the comprehensive approach taken by the authority to ensure road safety and compliance with traffic regulations.
The arrest of the bullion van driver underscores LASTMA's commitment to enforcing traffic laws without bias, reinforcing the message that all road users must adhere to regulations to protect lives and maintain order on Lagos roads.
