Eating, Drinking, Or Smoking While Driving In Lagos Can Land You In Jail

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has issued a serious warning to motorists, reminding them that engaging in activities like eating, drinking, or smoking while driving could land them in jail. According to LASTMA, these actions are not just careless but also illegal, as they are punishable under the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

This stern warning comes as the agency continues its efforts to create safer roads in Lagos by discouraging distracted driving. LASTMA argues that such distractions significantly increase the risk of accidents and other traffic-related incidents, which have become a growing concern in the city.

In an official post shared on its social media platform X (formerly Twitter) on Wednesday, April 9, LASTMA reminded motorists of the seriousness of the offense. The post stated:

“Smoking, drinking, and eating while driving is an offence under the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law 2018.”

As part of the consequences for breaking this law, offenders could face not only the impoundment of their vehicles but also a possible sentence of three months in prison or six months of community service.

Why is this Important?

Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents on Nigerian roads, and the Lagos State government is taking proactive steps to curb this dangerous behavior. With a population of over 20 million people, Lagos has become one of the most congested cities in the world, making road safety a critical concern for both the government and residents.

By issuing these warnings, LASTMA is making it clear that distracted driving will not be tolerated. Motorists are urged to stay focused on the road at all times and avoid engaging in activities that could compromise their ability to drive safely.

What Should Motorists Do?

Motorists in Lagos should take note of the following:

Avoid eating, drinking, or smoking while driving. These actions could not only impair your concentration but could also lead to legal consequences.

Ensure your focus remains on the road at all times to avoid accidents and avoid penalties.

Obey traffic laws and stay updated on any further announcements from LASTMA to keep the roads safe for everyone.

Conclusion

The recent warning from LASTMA should serve as a wake-up call for drivers in Lagos to be more responsible behind the wheel. While the temptation to multitask might be strong, the risks associated with distracted driving are far greater. Let’s all commit to keeping Lagos roads safer by staying focused and law-abiding. Failure to do so could not only cost you time but potentially your freedom.

Conduct Legislative Business In Yoruba - Afenifere Tells South-West States

Afenifere, the pan-Yoruba socio-political organisation, has urged legislatures in south-west states to make Yoruba the primary language of conducting parliamentary business.

The organisation made the call during a caucus meeting held on April 7, at the Akure residence of Reuben Fasoranti, its leader.

The meeting, which was presided by Seinde Arogbofa, saw representatives from various state chapters, including Kogi and Kwara, in attendance.

Afenifere also asked governments in south-west states to make Yoruba the medium of teaching “at elementary levels of education”.

“Afenifere is very persistent on the need to ensure that Yoruba language is used more as a medium of communication,” the statement signed by Jare Ajayi, its national publicity secretary, reads.

“The body specifically called on Governments in Yoruba-speaking states to make Yoruba the medium of teaching at elementary levels of our education: kindergarten/nursery, primary and junior secondary schools.

“Afenifere also urged Legislatures in Yoruba-speaking states to make Yoruba the language of conducting their legislative businesses as much as possible.”

INSECURITY

The organisation also asked for a comprehensive redesign of Nigeria’s security architecture to respond to the escalating insecurity across the country.

Afenifere expressed serious concerns over the spate of kidnappings and extra-judicial killings, citing recent incidents in Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Lagos, Ekiti, Oyo, Kogi, Plateau, Benue, Anambra, Edo, Nasarawa, Niger, and Kaduna.

The group urged the federal government and security agencies to delve deeper into the root causes of these security challenges and address them decisively.

The organisation implored governors in Yorubaland to strengthen the regional security network, particularly by increasing and training Amotekun personnel and deploying modern technology such as drones.

The group also reiterated its stance on the establishment of state police, calling for its immediate implementation.

Afenifere further urged state governors to address the issue of “unscrupulous herders terrorising farmers and disrupting agricultural activities”.

The group called on state governments to pay more attention to agriculture by revisiting and implementing policies on farm settlements and providing subsidised farm inputs and food items to the public.