Lagos Orders Mental Health Tests for 18 Traffic Offenders

Kehinde Adeleye

The Lagos State Government has ordered that 18 motorists apprehended for driving against traffic undergo psychiatric evaluation.

The directive, according to the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), is part of broader efforts to address reckless driving and promote order on the state’s roads.

In a statement issued on Saturday and signed by the Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment at LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq, the agency confirmed that arrangements have been made to arraign 12 of the offenders and subject them to mental health assessments to determine their fitness to operate vehicles.

General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare Oki, explained that the move is not meant to stigmatize or punish individuals but to serve as a protective measure for the safety of all road users.

“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 the initiative aligns with global standards in traffic psychology and enforcement.

Despite continuous public awareness efforts, the agency observed that many drivers still ignore traffic regulations, resulting in accidents, traffic congestion, and damage to road infrastructure.

“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,” Bakare-Oki added.

LASTMA urged all road users to comply with traffic regulations and report infractions via its toll free hotline: 080000527862.