Lagos: LASTMA threatens hostile shut down of event centres, nightclubs over traffic obstruction

Owners of event centres, nightclubs, bars, and social gathering planners have received a strong warning from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority(LASTMA) to refrain from blocking traffic during events around the state.

During a series of impromptu inspections and surveillance exercises throughout major traffic-prone corridors in Lagos, the directive was issued by Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, General Manager of LASTMA.

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Bakare-Oki voiced concern about the ongoing encroachment of public roads during high-profile events and criticised the careless parking and crowd spillover on public roads, characterising it as a significant cause of traffic jams, obstructions to emergency response routes, and needless hardship for commuters.

He reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s dedication to upholding equity, discipline, and order in the usage of public infrastructure, especially roads, under the direction of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.

“It is important to make it abundantly clear that no individual or organisation, regardless of influence or social standing, is permitted to convert public roads into parking lots or overflow zones for private or commercial events,” Bakare-Oki said.

He further stated that any establishment—whether it be a club, event space, or social gathering spot—found to be responsible for obstructing access roads, promoting unlawful parking, or intruding on the shoulders of public highways will be subject to prompt penalties, including legal action.

The LASTMA boss gave all zonal commanders and field units instructions to step up patrols, improve intelligence collection, and send out staff to designated hotspots, especially on weekends, during holidays, and during major social events.

Additionally, he encouraged the public to use the agency’s dedicated toll-free emergency line to report infractions.

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Bakare-Oki also urged hospitality and entertainment business owners to act responsibly by engaging certified traffic managers or consulting LASTMA for approved traffic management plans ahead of large gatherings.

“This is a shared responsibility. Event organisers must begin to prioritise public safety and show consideration for the rights of other road users,” he stated.