LASTMA Warns Against Indiscriminate Parking During Cross Over Nights

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has warned motorists against reckless parking and road obstruction during the upcoming cross‑over night celebrations across the state. In a statement released on Sunday, General Manager Olalekan Bakare‑Oki stressed the need to keep access roads clear around places of worship, markets, nightclubs, event centres and other major gathering points.

As the cross‑over night celebrations approach, LASTMA expects a significant rise in vehicular and pedestrian movement, which could be worsened by poorly coordinated activities such as carnivals, roadside festivities and street parties. While acknowledging the cultural and communal value of these events, Bakare‑Oki condemned the misuse of public roads for makeshift parking or event venues. He noted that such actions constitute serious violations of traffic regulations, with far‑reaching implications for public safety, emergency response and urban mobility.

To address these concerns, LASTMA has activated an enhanced traffic‑management framework to ensure smooth vehicular movement and public safety during the celebrations. Trained traffic officers, supported by rapid‑response units and advance surveillance teams, will be strategically deployed to identified traffic hotspots across the state. The agency will rigorously enforce parking regulations and swiftly remove any unlawful obstructions to traffic flow.

Bakare‑Oki urged motorists to refrain from abandoning vehicles on carriageways, road shoulders, medians, pedestrian walkways and critical access routes leading to churches, mosques and social centres. He also warned organisers and participants of carnivals, street parties and other festive gatherings against blocking highways, inner roads or access points without proper authorisation and coordination with the relevant authorities.

To mitigate anticipated traffic challenges, LASTMA has implemented measures to ensure seamless vehicular mobility. The agency has appealed to religious bodies, market associations, nightclub operators and event organisers to provide adequate parking arrangements and implement internal traffic‑control measures to prevent congestion from spilling onto public roads. Residents and visitors are advised to cooperate with traffic officials, comply with all directives and exercise patience and restraint as Lagos ushers in the New Year. Enforcement will be strict, with offenders facing sanctions in line with existing laws.

By taking these steps, LASTMA aims to ensure a safe and orderly cross‑over night celebration in Lagos while maintaining the city’s reputation for efficient traffic management. With the enhanced framework in place, residents and visitors can look forward to a hassle‑free and enjoyable start to the new year.