The Lagos State government has issued a stern warning to motorists in the state, advising them against making payments to touts for “illegal parking” in public places, including bridges and open spaces. This directive comes in response to reports of private vehicle owners engaging in unauthorised parking transactions with street urchins at various locations within the metropolis. Sola Giwa, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transportation, issued the warning through a statement released by Adebayo Taofiq, Director of Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).
The Lagos State Government has been working to tackle parking-related issues, with the Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA) established in 2021 to regulate parking policies and promote a sustainable parking system. Motorists are advised to park only in designated areas and avoid making payments to touts, as this can perpetuate illegal activities and compromise safety.