The Lagos State Government has taken decisive action by issuing a seven-day ‘Vacation Order’ aimed at clearing bridges of motorists and commercial bus drivers operating on them.
Sola Giwa, the Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Transportation, announced this move, citing the urgent necessity to eliminate traffic disruptions on the state’s bridges.
Despite repeated warnings and appeals, commercial bus drivers, colloquially referred to as ‘danfo drivers,’ have persistently flouted government directives, causing severe disruptions on and around the bridges. These disruptions not only jeopardize the integrity of the bridges but also lead to traffic congestion.
To provide a viable alternative, the government has established bus terminals and garages for commercial activities within the state. Giwa stated, “Every motorist and commercial bus driver operating on bridges like ‘Apongbon’ and ‘Idumota’ (Carter) Bridges, ‘Elegbata,’ ‘Ebute-Ero,’ and ‘Ejalonibu’ must promptly vacate these areas. The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) will initiate rigorous enforcement actions immediately after the ultimatum’s expiration, maintaining a zero-tolerance stance throughout the state.”
Giwa further underscored that the activities of these commercial bus drivers on the bridges run counter to the provisions of the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law 2018, as amended.
Violators will face prosecution in the Lagos State Mobile Court following the expiration of the ultimatum, demonstrating the government’s commitment to restoring order and ensuring smooth traffic flow on the bridges.