Angry youths in Abule Egba attacked Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) officials and their police escort on Tuesday after a tragic incident led to the death of an about-to-wed motorist.
The young man, whose wedding was scheduled for Saturday, was struck by a vehicle allegedly fleeing from LASTMA officials in the Super area of Abule Egba, causing an uproar among residents and road users.
According to witnesses, LASTMA officers had stopped the driver of a Toyota Corolla for using the BRT lane and demanded a N100,000 bribe to avoid confiscation of his vehicle.
The driver, who was with his younger brother, pleaded with officials to accept N40,000 instead, explaining that he was unaware of the BRT restriction and was preparing for his upcoming wedding.
Despite his repeated pleas and an increased offer of N70,000, the officers allegedly insisted he must pay the full amount or face consequences.
Amid the standoff, another vehicle attempting to evade the LASTMA enforcement team struck the Corolla, killing the driver instantly and injuring his brother.
The incident ignited fury among onlookers and passersby, who accused LASTMA officers of extortion and exploitation at the expense of innocent motorists.
The crowd soon grew into a mob, chanting war songs and demanding the withdrawal of LASTMA and police from the area. “We want the government to remove these agencies from here; they only extort and oppress people daily,” said one protester.
Another local trader complained about the lack of clear signage distinguishing the BRT lane, which, she claimed, allows officials to exploit unsuspecting motorists.
Protesters also alleged that officers often lie in wait to trap and intimidate drivers into paying bribes instead of ensuring proper traffic control.
In the aftermath, protesters used the deceased’s Corolla and other objects to barricade the BRT lane, resisting efforts by police to remove the blockage. Chants filled the air, including, “We don’t need BRT, it will never operate on this route again,” and “LASTMA and police are here for their pockets, not the public.”
As tensions remain high, Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed awareness of the incident, stating, “A driver who violated the BRT lane restriction hit a man, leading to his death. Further details are still forthcoming.”
