The persistent misuse of the BRT lanes by unauthorised users, including commercial vehicle drivers, private car owners, and motorcycle operators—particularly at the Iyana Ipaja axis—requires urgent intervention. This widespread violation poses significant risks that could lead to catastrophe if left unchecked.
It seems that the initial strict enforcement against BRT lane violators has diminished over time, reflecting a broader lack of maintenance culture in the region.
In the past, high-profile cases of misconduct, such as in 2012 when Governor Raji Fashola reprimanded a senior Army officer and his sergeant for using the BRT lane, demonstrated a clear commitment to upholding the law. Despite the officer’s apology, Fashola emphasised that even military personnel must abide by the law, and fines were imposed as a deterrent to others.
Governor Fashola’s zero-tolerance stance against lawlessness was clear when he publicly stated that, as a governor, he would rather sit in traffic than misuse the BRT lane.
Similarly, his successor, Governor Akinwunmi Ambode, also stressed the importance of adhering to traffic laws and collaborated with the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) and military police to address the increasing violations, particularly by military personnel.
However, today, military and police officers are seen frequently using the BRT lanes along the Iyana Ipaja to Oshodi corridor, while commercial and private vehicles, as well as motorcycle operators, often disregard the regulations. The situation is particularly noticeable at Iyana Ipaja, where unauthorised users frequently occupy both lanes without consequence.
This disregard for the law has become so common that many BRT bus drivers now take extra caution to avoid collisions with unauthorised vehicles.
One local worker, Sanya, noted that the situation has become normalised, with everyone continuing his or her business as usual.
Others, like Razaq, mentioned that task force members are occasionally present but ineffective in enforcing the rules.
When asked for comment, Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotosho, reiterated the government’s stance on the issue. He stated that it is essential for everyone to recognize that using the BRT lanes without permission is illegal.
While task force members are actively working to enforce the rules, Omotosho emphasised the government’s broader goal of cultivating a culture of lawfulness.
He urged that, as in other civilised countries, the BRT lanes should be reserved exclusively for buses, and the government would continue to enforce this regulation.
The government’s message is clear: driving on BRT lanes is illegal, and only authorized buses should be allowed to use them. Enforcement measures will persist, and efforts will continue to ensure that the BRT lanes are used properly, as in major cities worldwide.
