Traffic enforcement is a crucial element of road safety, and I have always been an advocate for stricter compliance with traffic laws. The blatant disregard for these laws, especially by commercial drivers and even some private motorists, is a major source of frustration. However, my frustration extends beyond just the violators—it includes the law enforcement officers who selectively enforce these laws, sometimes as enablers of the chaos and at other times as opportunistic extortionists.

A Case of Reckless Driving Turned Extortion Attempt

On a recent Tuesday, I was caught in traffic along Agidingbi Road, coming from Ojodu. As the traffic light turned green, I moved forward, only for a reckless bike rider with a passenger—both donning hard hats—to suddenly dart across the intersection. Forced to slam my brakes to avoid a fatal accident, I found myself momentarily frozen at the intersection. Within those brief seconds, the traffic light turned red.

What followed was nothing short of a coordinated ambush. Policemen leaped in front of my car, banging on my windows and claiming I had beaten the traffic light. A supposed senior officer in mufti approached, accusing me of an infraction. I explained that I had been forced to stop because of the reckless biker, yet he dismissed my explanation and let me go without further conversation.

Thinking the issue was resolved, I parked by Big Treat, expecting further engagement from the officers. None came. But the next day, I received an SMS notifying me of a traffic infraction and demanding a fine. That moment confirmed what many Lagosians have always suspected—this system is not about enforcement; it is about revenue generation and extortion.

Rogue Policemen – Enablers of Traffic Infractions

The Nigerian Police Force, particularly the State Traffic Division, is a relic of inefficiency and corruption. The Big Treat roundabout, for instance, is a textbook example of how not to manage traffic. Police officers—especially the women—either passively observe lawlessness or actively participate in it.

It is common knowledge that commercial vehicles (Korope and Marwa) routinely run red lights and drive against traffic with impunity, knowing full well that a small “settlement” will absolve them. Yet, private vehicle owners are singled out for selective enforcement, stopped abruptly, and harassed under the pretense of law enforcement.

Additionally, along Wempco Road, these police officers frequently set up impromptu checkpoints, causing unnecessary gridlock simply to check vehicle particulars—something that could be automated or checked remotely. Do they ever consider the impact of their actions on commuters trying to get to work, school, or business engagements? Do they care about the productivity lost to these inefficient, outdated enforcement tactics? Or are they more interested in issuing their unofficial “pay-as-you-go” passes?

 Recommendations for a Modernized Traffic Enforcement System

Lagos State touts itself as the “Center of Excellence,” yet its traffic enforcement is far from excellent. We need modern solutions:

1. AI-Powered Traffic Monitoring: Rather than relying on human officers prone to bias and corruption, Lagos State should invest in AI-driven traffic monitoring systems. These systems can automatically capture traffic infractions without selective enforcement, ensuring that every violator—whether private or commercial—is held accountable.

2. Smart Ticketing and Automated Fines: Instead of officers jumping in front of moving vehicles, smart cameras should capture license plates, and automated systems should issue fines. This eliminates room for bribery and makes enforcement consistent.

3. Vehicle Particulars Verification via Digital Platforms: Instead of obstructing traffic to check vehicle documents, a centralized digital verification system should be integrated with law enforcement databases. Officers can scan a vehicle’s license plate and verify all documents without forcing a stop.

4. Transparent Traffic Infraction Appeals: Many Lagosians have fallen victim to fraudulent fines. There should be an independent platform where drivers can contest infractions with video evidence from traffic cameras, rather than being at the mercy of corrupt officers.

5. Comprehensive Traffic Officer Training: Officers should be retrained in modern enforcement methods, including conflict de-escalation, ethical enforcement, and effective traffic management. The archaic and dangerous practice of jumping in front of moving cars should be outlawed immediately.

6. Proper Placement of Bus Stops: Bus stops should not be located at major traffic intersections, as they contribute to unnecessary congestion. A prime example is the Allen Bus Stop heading to Alausa, positioned just after the traffic light intersection. This location creates significant gridlock because commercial vehicles often fail to park properly. Additionally, the area serves as a convergence point for traffic from Allen, Awolowo Road, and Aromire, making it a bottleneck. The bus stop should be relocated to a position before the traffic light, where there is sufficient space to accommodate vehicles. Furthermore, strict enforcement should be in place to ensure commercial vehicles park correctly while loading and offloading passengers at all bus stops.

Traffic Light Positioning and Visibility

While Lagos State deserves commendation for maintaining traffic lights, their placement in some locations is problematic. The intersection at Wempco Road and Agidingbi is a prime example—its traffic light is positioned so high that at certain angles, it is completely out of a driver’s line of sight. This poor placement creates a loophole that unscrupulous officers exploit, accusing drivers of running a red light when, in fact, they simply couldn’t see it.

To address this:

– Dual Placement of Traffic Lights: Traffic signals should be positioned both overhead and at eye level so they are visible from all angles.

– Regular Assessment for Visibility Issues: The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) should routinely evaluate all intersections and adjust the height or placement of signals where necessary.

 The Case of Traffic Cameras: Are They Just for Show?

Lagos boasts an extensive CCTV network, yet traffic violations persist at an alarming rate. Are these cameras truly functional, or are they simply decorative? Some seem positioned to monitor airplane traffic rather than road traffic.

If properly deployed, traffic cameras should:

– Monitor All Vehicles, Not Just Private Cars: Commercial drivers, who are often the worst offenders, should be held equally accountable.

– Provide Objective Evidence: Instead of relying on subjective accounts from officers with handheld cameras (which can be turned off or manipulated), traffic camera footage should be publicly accessible for contesting fines.

– Ensure Fair Application of the Law: The system should work for all Lagosians, not just as a tool for revenue generation from unsuspecting motorists.

 Conclusion: A Call for Overhaul

I have paid my fine, but I remain adamant that it was unjust. The recklessness of another road user put me in a position where stopping was the safest choice. Yet, the police officers who witnessed the entire event ignored the real traffic violator and conveniently targeted me instead.

It is time for Lagos State to overhaul its traffic enforcement system. Selective enforcement breeds lawlessness because it sends a message that compliance is optional depending on one’s ability to pay a bribe. AI and automation must take center stage in managing road safety, and rogue officers who prioritize extortion over enforcement should be dismissed.

The traffic chaos in Lagos is not just a result of bad drivers but also of bad enforcement. If the government genuinely wants to fix the problem, it must start with those responsible for maintaining order. Until then, Lagos roads will remain a jungle where law-abiding citizens are prey to a corrupt and inefficient system nurtured by the chaos.