Lagos warns against indiscriminate display of vehicles for sale

The Lagos State government, through the State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), has warned motor dealers against indiscriminately displaying vehicles for sale in unapproved locations.

The General Manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare Oki, addressed members of the Lagos State Motor Dealers Association during their courtesy visit.

He cautioned that displaying vehicles on walkways and unauthorised locations contravened the state government’s vision for a mega city.

Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of LASTMA, Adebayo Taofiq, issued a statement emphasising that the illegal display of vehicles for sale impeded the free flow of traffic within the state.

He said: “LASTMA has issued a strong warning to all auto dealers in Lagos, advising them against the unauthorised display of vehicles for sale on road setbacks, walkways, and other prohibited areas, as this obstructs the free flow of traffic.

“This warning was communicated during a courtesy visit by the Lagos Motor Dealers Association to the General Manager of LASTMA, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, at the LASTMA headquarters in Oshodi.

“During the visit, Mr Bakare-Oki underscored the importance of maintaining order and ensuring smooth traffic flow, noting that numerous complaints have been received from Community Development Associations (CDAs) regarding the illegal activities of some auto dealers across the state.”

He pointed out that the illegal placement of vehicles on roadsides, setbacks, streets, and walkways poses a significant risk to public safety, obstructs pedestrian movement, and exacerbates traffic congestion.

The Lagos State Government is dedicated to ensuring a safe and orderly environment for all residents and road users. We will not hesitate to enforce the law against any auto dealer found violating these regulations,” Bakare-Oki asserted.

He further reiterated that LASTMA, in collaboration with other relevant agencies, will continue to intensify its monitoring efforts and penalise violators.

Therefore, auto dealers are urged to adhere strictly to the guidelines for vehicle display to avoid sanctions, which may include fines and vehicle impoundment.

In response, the Lagos Motor Dealers Association, led by its President, Prince Leke Aladegbemi, expressed willingness to cooperate with LASTMA and other authorities to promote compliance among their members.

He acknowledged the need for auto dealers to operate within the confines of the law and pledged to educate their members on the importance of adhering to the state’s regulations.