The Lagos State chapter of the Allied People’s Movement (APM) has called for comprehensive reforms in the operations of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), citing growing concerns over the conduct of some of the agency’s personnel.
The party, in a statement issued on Monday by its Publicity Secretary, Ayodele Kazeem, expressed concern over what it described as increasing reports of reckless enforcement activities, indiscriminate arrests of motorists, and confrontations between traffic officials and road users.
While acknowledging the important role played by LASTMA in traffic management and road safety across Lagos State, the APM stated that the actions of some officers had fallen short of the professionalism expected of a modern traffic management agency.
According to the party, reports of motorists being arrested for minor traffic infractions that could be resolved through warnings and guidance have become common, creating avoidable tension between officials and members of the public.
The party also alleged that the conduct of some traffic officers had, in certain instances, contributed to road accidents and endangered the lives of innocent passengers.
“No traffic enforcement exercise should place the lives and safety of citizens at risk,” the statement noted.
To address the situation, the APM advocated the immediate deployment of body cameras for all LASTMA officers while on duty, arguing that such devices would enhance transparency and accountability in interactions between traffic officials and motorists.
The party maintained that body cameras would provide objective records of encounters, discourage misconduct by both officers and road users, and strengthen public confidence in the agency.
It further recommended strict regulations to prevent officers from tampering with or deactivating the devices during official duty hours except under clearly defined circumstances.In addition, the opposition party called for the complete digitalization of LASTMA’s enforcement and administrative processes, including the handling of traffic violations, penalties, documentation, and incident reports.
According to the APM, the adoption of transparent digital platforms would reduce human interference, curb opportunities for corruption, and promote greater accountability within the agency.
The party stressed that Lagos, as a modern megacity, should embrace technology-driven traffic management solutions capable of protecting both road users and enforcement officers.
“The era of discretionary enforcement and opaque procedures should give way to a system founded on accountability, professionalism, and respect for human dignity,” the statement added.
The APM reiterated its commitment to advocating policies aimed at improving governance, strengthening public institutions, and ensuring that government agencies operate in the best interests of the people.
