The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) says it will commence mandatory and comprehensive psychiatric evaluations for 18 drivers recently arrested for driving against traffic.
In a statement, Adebayo Taofiq, LASTMA director of public
affairs, said the directive from the Lagos state government is a “strategic
effort to curb the menace of one-way traffic violations” in the state.
Olalekan Bakare-Oki, general manager of LASTMA, said the
psychiatric tests aim to protect the public from “dangerously reckless” road
users.
The agency said it has finalised prosecutorial frameworks
for the immediate arraignment of the 18 vehicle owners apprehended for “wilfully driving against
traffic flow”.
“In a strategic effort to curb the menace of one-way traffic
violations in Lagos, the Lagos state government has directed the Lagos State
Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) to ensure that 18 motorists apprehended
for brazenly driving against traffic flow (one-way) undergo mandatory
psychiatric evaluation,” the statement reads.
“This directive is part of a multi-faceted approach to
restore road discipline, ensure public safety, and maintain order on Lagos
roads.
“The Lagos state government views this measure as a
preventive and restorative step, rather than a punitive one, aimed at
rehabilitating errant drivers and deterring potential violators.
“As part of their prosecution, each offender will be
required to undergo a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to assess their
cognitive fitness and behavioural disposition.”
Bakare-Oki said that the initiative reflects global best
practices in advanced traffic psychology and behavioural enforcement.
“The deployment of psychiatric testing serves as both a
corrective instrument and a deterrent to those who may be tempted to emulate
such hazardous behaviour,” he said.
“This measure is more than just a traffic enforcement
initiative; it is a moral and civic imperative, reflecting the Lagos state
government’s vision to promote responsible motoring, safeguard human life, and
maintain order on our roads.”
The LASTMA manager added that despite sustained public
sensitisation, some drivers continue to act with impunity, causing crashes,
traffic congestion and road damage.
Bakare-Oki reiterated that the Lagos government is
determined to enforce traffic laws in order to prevent further loss of lives
and ensure public safety.
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