The Lagos state government has cautioned motorists against making illicit payments to touts for illegal parking on bridges and other open spaces across the state.

The special adviser to the governor on transportation, Sola Giwa, said this in a statement on Monday in Lagos.

The statement was signed by Taofiq Adebayo, director, public affairs and enlightenment Department, LASTMA.

According to Mr Giwa, the notification has become necessary following reports of private vehicle owners patronising street urchins for unauthorised parking.

He underscored the need for motorists to strictly adhere to government-installed road signage and urban furniture, which explicitly delineate designated “No Parking” zones.

“Noncompliance contributes significantly to congestion and impedes the seamless flow of traffic.

“This directive comes in response to reports indicating that private vehicle owners have been engaging in transactions with street urchins for unauthorised parking privileges at various locations within the metropolis.

“Notorious areas plagued by illegal parking are locations such as Ebute-Ero, Ejalonibu, Adeniji-Adele, Oyingbo, Oworonsoki, Iyana-Ipaja and Medical Road near Computer Village, among others.

“Vehicles are indiscriminately stationed on bridges and other restricted spaces, thereby exacerbating vehicular gridlock,” he said.

Reaffirming government’s stance on maintaining order on the roads, Mr Giwa said the administration would not remain passive while such unlawful practices persist.

He stressed that motorists attempting to validate their infractions by citing payments to touts would face stringent enforcement measures.

“The Lagos State Government, therefore, urges all motorists to comply with established traffic regulations.

”They should refrain from patronising unscrupulous elements who exploit public spaces for personal gain,” he said. 

(NAN)