By; RAYMOND TEDUNJAYE, Lagos
In continued efforts to ensuring free flow of traffic on the Apapa-Oshodi expressway, the Lagos State Government in conjunction with the Nigeria Ports Authority (NPA) has commenced the removal of illegally parked and abandoned trailers on the road and its environs.
The decision is sequel to the expiration of a ‘Removal Order’ issued to the owners and drivers to remove them to ensure general safety of motorists and allow unimpeded free flow of traffic around the entire Apapa axis.
The Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA Mr. Adebayo Taofiq in a statement, explained that the General Manager of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Mr. Bolaji Oreagba, who led the combined enforcement team which commenced on Tuesday, 10th of October, 2023 disclosed that over 18 trailers have so far been removed in accordance with the government’s zero tolerance for gridlocks and indiscipline.
Mr. Oreagba added that the enforcement operations which would be a continuous exercise was to checkmate the excesses of these trailer drivers and restore sanity around Creek Road, Etisalat Corridor, Trebor Junction, Liverpool, down to Tin-Can first/second Gates to Coconut, Trinity, Sunrise and Mile 2 axis.
Oreagba said, “The Lagos State Government, being a responsible and responsive one, will ensure that every motorists have a smooth ride from the Port Gate inwards Apapa-Oshodi Expressway and not only trailers carrying containers.”
The General Manager said efforts had been made in the past to restore sanity and bring back the glory of Apapa, which had been truncated by the indisciplined attitude of trailer drivers.
According to Oreagba “Series of meetings have been held with the Petroleum tanker/trailer drivers branch of the National Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, other transport stakeholders to educate their members and ensure that they desist from indiscriminate parking and being indiscipline on the road.
“All tanker/ trailer drivers are advised to adhere strictly to the new directive, as the government will not hesitate to enforce traffic rules and regulations to the letter.”
Oreagba however, called on motorists including other road users to take possession of the road and not hesitate to inform LASTMA of any broken down or abandoned trailers/ tankers via the Agency hotlines. (08100565860, 08129928515, 08129928593)
He maintained that all contravened trailers/ tankers would be immediately charged to court for prosecutions in accordance with the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018.
