18 motorists arrested for allegedly driving against traffic flow will undergo mandatory psychiatric evaluation, Lagos State government said on Sunday.
In a statement, Adebayo Taofiq Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department
LASTMA said the government directive issued to the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), is a strategic effort to curb the menace of one-way traffic violations.
“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.
“LASTMA has finalized prosecutorial frameworks for the immediate arraignment of 12 vehicle owners recently apprehended for willfully driving against traffic flow.
“As part of their prosecution, each offender will be required to undergo a comprehensive psychiatric evaluation to assess their cognitive fitness and behavioral disposition.
According to the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, this initiative reflects global best practices in advanced traffic psychology and behavioral enforcement.
It said, “The enforcement of psychiatric assessments is not intended to stigmatize or punish.
“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”, Bakare-Oki said.
