The Lagos State Traffic Management Authourity (LASTMA) has debunked reports that it fined a driver N60,000 for letting his car run out of fuel.
LASTMA stated through Filade Olumide, the assistant director, public affairs, that the report was being peddled in an attempt to solicit public sympathy.
The traffic agency said that it did not act illegally by impounding a vehicle abandoned on the road which has caused obstruction.
The statement reads:
“Re: LASTMA asks Lagos driver to pay N60,000 after his car ran out of fuel
“The online publication of the above subject matter is at best mischievous and a calculated attempt for public sympathy in order to avoid justice.
“The Lagos State Traffic Law as enacted and amended by the Lagos State House of Assembly as regards the above is an unfounded allegation against the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).
“According to the report, allowing fuel to be exhausted in one’s vehicle on the highway does not show responsibility. LASTMA has not committed any illegality by impounding a vehicle abandoned on the road and causing willful obstruction which is an offence in the law.
“It should be noted that LASTMA will not be irresponsible as to leave such vehicle on the road, so as not to disturb other road users, while the said sixty-thousand-naira (=N=60,000.00) fine is broken down into Willful Obstruction – fifty thousand naira (=N=50,000.00) and Towing fee – ten thousand naira (=N=10,000.00) as specified in the Lagos State Transport Law of 2018. This does not amount to an arbitrary imposition of fine.
“The agency will not allow any person to constitute a nuisance to other road users in whatever form, as road users are expected to be responsible in maintaining their vehicles and have consideration for other road users. Imagine if all other road users are also allowed to act against the law, what would become of Lagos traffic?
“Fines and penalties are meant to serve as deterrent against another occurrence and for others to learn from. Government cannot afford to fail law abiding citizens of the State. Let us all join hands together for a greater Lagos.
