By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
The Lagos State Government has ordered mental evaluation for 18 drivers caught driving against traffic, also known as one-way driving.
The move is aimed at restoring sanity on Lagos roads and checking reckless driving.
General Manager of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, confirmed the development. He said the drivers were caught at different locations across the state.
According to Bakare-Oki, “Aside from prosecution in court, each offender will undergo psychiatric evaluation to check their mental and behavioural state.”
He explained that a team of psychiatrists will carry out the tests to help understand why the drivers acted recklessly and to offer preventive steps going forward.
Bakare-Oki noted, “The psychiatric assessment is not to stigmatize or punish. It is a necessary step to protect other road users from those who show no regard for human life or traffic rules.”
He said the initiative follows international best practices in traffic psychology and is part of broader plans to ensure road safety.
He added that despite ongoing public awareness campaigns, many road users still disobey traffic laws, leading to accidents, congestion, and damage to public infrastructure.
“This measure is more than just traffic enforcement,” Bakare-Oki stressed. “It is a moral and civic duty aimed at promoting responsible driving, protecting lives, and maintaining order.”
He warned that anyone caught driving against traffic would face the full wrath of the law, including possible jail time.
LASTMA urged all road users to obey traffic laws, drive responsibly, and help build a safe and orderly Lagos.
For help on traffic-related matters, the public is advised to call LASTMA’s toll-free line: 080000527862.