The Lagos State Government has responded to growing concerns surrounding its recent initiative to install speed limit cameras and other Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) across the state. While the government emphasizes that the goal is to improve road safety and traffic management, many residents and motorists have voiced skepticism, questioning whether the move is truly aimed at reducing accidents or merely a revenue-generation strategy.
In partnership with Huawei Technologies, the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation unveiled four new ITS sites last week as part of efforts to tackle speed violations and improve traffic management. The government has also revealed plans to install approximately 3,000 speed limit cameras and e-police systems throughout Lagos, sparking debates among residents about the true intentions behind the initiative.
At a press briefing last Thursday, the Lagos State Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, outlined the objectives of the new traffic monitoring system. According to Osiyemi, the installation of speed limit cameras and other ITS systems is designed to address one of the most pressing causes of road accidents in Lagos: over-speeding.
The new checkpoints, located at strategic spots such as Alapere on Ogudu Road and Nitel on Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, are meant to monitor traffic speeds and ensure that drivers adhere to the set limits. For instance, the speed limit at the Alapere checkpoint is set at 80km/h, while the Nitel checkpoint has a limit of 60km/h. Additionally, two e-police monitoring stations have been set up at Allen Avenue Junction and Nurudeen Olowopopo Road to track various traffic infractions, such as running red lights, illegal U-turns, and reverse driving on highways.
During the briefing, Osiyemi emphasized that the enforcement of traffic laws would begin immediately, with violators receiving SMS notifications detailing their offenses and corresponding fines. For example, those who run red lights face a ₦20,000 fine, while motorists caught exceeding speed limits will be fined ₦50,000.
“We are not here to punish anyone,” Osiyemi said. “This system is meant to encourage responsible driving and reduce accidents. Our goal is to save lives, protect property, and create an orderly transportation environment in Lagos.”
Despite the government’s assurances, many Lagosians remain wary of the new system. Some have raised concerns that the initiative may be more focused on generating revenue than improving road safety. Several residents and motorists have expressed doubt about the fairness and transparency of the system, particularly when it comes to monitoring traffic violations.
One resident, Mr. Sola Alabi, pointed out that for the system to be effective, it must be applied equally to all vehicles, both private and commercial. Alabi argued that exempting certain groups from enforcement could undermine the effectiveness of the initiative and compromise public safety.
“If cameras are going to be deployed, they should capture violations from all vehicles—private cars and commercial buses alike,” Alabi said. “Exempting some vehicles could create safety concerns and breed distrust in the system.”
Another motorist, Mr. Francis Akinola, questioned whether the cameras were installed with road safety in mind or as a means of increasing government revenue.
“Governments around the world do use traffic fines as a source of income, but the priority should always be road safety,” Akinola said. “I just hope that the authorities are not using this system to collect money from drivers rather than focusing on reducing accidents.”
Mrs. Grace Abiona, a regular commuter, also voiced concerns about the lack of enforcement against commercial vehicles, which she claims are often the main culprits of reckless driving in Lagos.
“Danfo drivers often ignore traffic laws, and many of their vehicles are in poor condition,” Abiona noted. “Yet, there’s little enforcement against them. I don’t understand why the government isn’t cracking down on these vehicles that pose such a danger to everyone.”
Abiona also questioned the speed limits set on certain roads, such as the Apapa-Oshodi expressway, which has a limit of just 50-60km/h, far below the 100km/h limit recommended by national highway codes. She speculated that such low limits could be more about generating revenue than ensuring safety.
In response to the growing criticism, the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation has sought to clarify the details of the program. Mrs. Bolanle Ogunlola, the Director of Public Affairs for the ministry, dismissed widespread rumors and false claims circulating on social media. She explained that enforcement of the new traffic laws is still in its pilot phase, with cameras currently operational only at selected locations.
“Some of the claims that have gone viral on social media are false,” Ogunlola said. “The cameras are not yet deployed everywhere, and enforcement is limited to just two roads for now as a pilot phase. We will gradually expand to other areas.”
She also acknowledged that some traffic signs had been vandalized, which contributed to confusion about the system’s implementation. “Speed limit cameras are only operational at specific locations for now, and we urge motorists to adhere to the set limits to avoid violations,” Ogunlola advised.
The Lagos State Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) Director, Engr. Akin-George Fashola, also addressed concerns about the fairness of enforcement, confirming that the new traffic system applies to all vehicles without exception.
“All vehicles, including commercial buses, are subject to these regulations,” Fashola clarified. “There are no exemptions. On average, 50 commercial buses are apprehended daily for various violations, so there is no preferential treatment.”
Fashola also noted that the government plans to install around 3,000 e-police and speed limit cameras across the state in the coming months, which would significantly enhance the ability to monitor traffic and enforce laws.
In addition, the VIS has introduced an online roadworthiness recertification system, allowing vehicle owners to renew their roadworthiness certificates without visiting a VIS office. This move is expected to streamline the process and reduce bottlenecks in vehicle inspections.
As the Lagos government expands the use of speed cameras and ITS systems, it will be crucial for the authorities to maintain transparency and fairness in enforcement. While many residents understand the importance of reducing traffic accidents and improving road safety, concerns over potential revenue-generation motives remain a significant issue.
The Lagos State Government has insisted that the initiative is primarily aimed at enhancing safety and managing traffic more effectively. However, for the system to gain full public trust, it must be fair, unbiased, and free of corruption.
Motorists are advised to stay informed, adhere to traffic regulations, and drive responsibly to avoid penalties. The government has reiterated that the system will ultimately benefit Lagosians by reducing accidents, promoting order on the roads, and saving lives.
As the cameras roll out across the state, it remains to be seen how the public will respond to the evolving traffic enforcement strategy. For now, Lagosians will have to wait and watch as the government navigates the complexities of traffic management and public trust.
