Security and traffic management agencies have intensified collaboration to reduce road accidents and curb “one-chance” robbery incidents on major Lagos highways.

The strategy was announced at a stakeholders’ meeting on Tuesday at the Police Command Headquarters, Ikeja.

Participants at the meeting included the Nigeria Police Force, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), and other federal and state agencies.

They stressed the urgent need for joint operations due to heavy vehicular traffic and recurring accidents.

The Commissioner of Police, Lagos Command, Olohundare Jimoh, urged agencies to operate in synergy to improve traffic management and ensure safety on highways serving millions daily.

He noted that Lagos State had over 23 million residents and attracted intense vehicular movement, including articulated trucks transporting containers, fuel, and goods.

He said that reckless driving, disregard for traffic rules, and indiscriminate movement of heavy vehicles into populated areas contributed significantly to fatal accidents.

To address these challenges, Mr Jimoh said the agencies agreed on a clear action plan, including monthly coordination meetings and seeking logistical support from the state government when necessary.

“Police deployment has been increased across highways to enforce traffic laws and encourage pedestrians to use overhead bridges,” he said.

He warned that illegal road crossing led to avoidable deaths and serious injuries.

“All road accidents, whether minor or fatal, are thoroughly investigated to ensure culpable drivers are prosecuted.

“No driver is above the law. There is the need for strict compliance with traffic regulations,” Mr Jimoh said.

He expressed concern over overloaded trucks and those misused to transport containers into restricted areas.

“Violations will attract strict sanctions, including arrest and prosecution,” he said.

The police boss also addressed “one-chance” robbery, describing it as opportunistic and thriving when commuters board vehicles without proper checks.

He advised residents to plan their journeys, verify vehicle registration numbers, and avoid suspicious vehicles.

The commissioner urged the public to cooperate with law enforcement officers during stop-and-search operations.

“Reported one-chance incidents have reduced due to sustained patrols, intelligence-led operations, and public sensitisation,” he said.

The Lagos sector command of the FRSC highlighted the success of its Safe-to-Load (STL) programme to prevent tanker crashes and explosions.

Deputy Corps Commander (Operations), Bashiru Adeyemi, said STL ensured that only roadworthy tankers met safety standards before lifting fuel.

He noted that unethical practices by some operators, such as swapping certified components at night, remained a risk.

Mr Adeyemi called for continued cooperation from depot operators, port authorities, and other stakeholders.

According to him, the FRSC is ready to manage end-of-year traffic surges from social and religious events.

LASTMA’s Director of Operations, Gbejemede Peter, emphasised public sensitisation as critical in reducing road accidents.

He said sustained inter-agency cooperation and awareness campaigns would improve traffic flow and safeguard lives and property.

Mr Peter urged motorists and pedestrians to obey traffic rules and support enforcement efforts, noting that road safety was a shared responsibility.
(NAN)