An Assessment of Igbogbo-Baiyeku LCDA on Traffic Management
Abiodun AWOSANYA (Rex!)
Traffic management is far more than a routine task in Lagos. It is a fundamental pillar that supports economic productivity and social harmony. With a population exceeding 20 million and one of the highest vehicle densities in sub-Saharan Africa, any disruption to the flow of traffic in Lagos can have immediate and far-reaching consequences. This is why the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) remains a vital institution. Yet, the nonchalant attitude of many organizations and event organizers toward the agency’s involvement in events that affect vehicular movement remains a troubling oversight.
Too often, events ranging from political meetings and social functions to cultural celebrations are held without proper coordination with LASTMA. This undermines the agency’s ability to proactively manage traffic and protect the motoring public. A case in point is the outgoing administration of the Igbogbo-Baiyeku Local Council Development Area (LCDA), led by Hon. Sesan Daini, even though he has a pass mark in security of lives and properties, but that’s not the bane of contention here.
During his administration, several high-profile events were conducted without adequate traffic planning or formal involvement of LASTMA. One notable example is the 2019 Stakeholders’ meeting, a significant political gathering attended by residents, community leaders, and dignitaries but LASTMA was absent even when an FRSC boss was present and highly recognised in the gathering. In addition, despite the high traffic volume anticipated, LASTMA was not actively included in the event logistics. This omission led to congestion, improper parking, and unnecessary delays for motorists navigating the area.
Even more concerning was the commissioning of the new Igbogbo Palace, a commendable cultural milestone for the LCDA. While multiple security agencies, including the police, Joint Task force, and NSCDC were duly invited and deployed, LASTMA was again left out of the initial traffic coordination plan. The implications were immediate.
Fortunately, the zonal authority in charge of the Palace area recognized the impending chaos and took proactive action. Although the agency had not been formally informed, the zonal leadership deployed officials quickly to the area. Their early intervention helped to decongest traffic and restore order. Had they not realized the urgency in time, the situation could have deteriorated rapidly.
This incident underscores a critical trut; even a minute delay in Lagos traffic translates into significant economic setbacks. Time lost in traffic leads to reduced productivity, missed business opportunities, higher fuel consumption, and stress on public infrastructure. Conversely, a free-flowing traffic system, championed and maintained by LASTMA, contributes to the overall prosperity of the state. Businesses function more efficiently, public transportation becomes more reliable, and emergency services reach their destinations faster.
It is, therefore, essential that all stakeholders, including all LCDA administrations in Lagos, private organizations, and event planners, view LASTMA not as an afterthought but as a strategic partner in event planning. Traffic management should be prioritized alongside security and logistics in any public gathering that could impact vehicular movement.
Lagos cannot afford traffic mismanagement. To keep the city moving and economically vibrant, LASTMA’s role must be acknowledged, respected, and fully integrated into every event with potential traffic implications. The future of Lagos’ progress depends on it.
