APM demands reforms in LASTMA operations, calls for body cameras for officers

The Lagos State chapter of the Allied People’s Movement (APM) has called for comprehensive reforms in the operations of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), citing growing concerns over the conduct of some of its personnel.

In a statement issued on Tuesday by Ayodele Kazeem, the party’s publicity secretary, the APM said it had observed with concern what it described as unprofessional activities by some LASTMA officials, which have increasingly become a source of worry for motorists and other road users across Lagos.

While acknowledging the agency’s role in traffic management and road safety, the party said the conduct of some officers had fallen short of the standards expected of a modern traffic management institution.

According to the statement, reports of reckless enforcement activities, indiscriminate arrests of motorists for minor traffic infractions, and dangerous confrontations on the roads have become too frequent to ignore.

The opposition party argued that many minor violations could be addressed through warnings and guidance rather than punitive measures.

The APM further expressed concern over incidents in which the actions of some traffic officials allegedly contributed to avoidable road accidents and endangered the lives of innocent passengers.

“More disturbing are incidents where the actions of some personnel have allegedly contributed to avoidable road accidents, endangered the lives of innocent passengers, and created unnecessary tension between traffic officials and members of the public. No traffic enforcement exercise should place the lives and safety of citizens at risk,” the statement read.

The opposition party maintained that Lagos deserved a traffic management system built on safety, professionalism, accountability and public confidence.

As part of its recommendations, the APM advocated the immediate deployment of body cameras to all LASTMA officers while on duty.

It said the use of body cameras would promote transparency, provide objective records of interactions between officers and motorists, discourage misconduct by both parties, and improve public trust in the agency.

The party also urged authorities to ensure that officers are not allowed to deactivate or tamper with the devices during duty hours except under strictly regulated circumstances.

The APM also called for the complete digitalisation of LASTMA’s enforcement and administrative processes.

According to the party, traffic violations, penalties, documentation and incident reports should be processed through transparent digital platforms to reduce human interference and minimise opportunities for corruption and abuse of authority.

The party stressed that Lagos, as a modern city, should embrace technology-driven traffic management solutions that protect both road users and enforcement officers.

“The era of discretionary enforcement and opaque procedures should give way to a system founded on accountability, professionalism, and respect for human dignity,” the statement added.

The APM reaffirmed its commitment to promoting policies aimed at improving governance, strengthening public institutions and ensuring that government agencies operate in the best interests of the people.