LASTMA Raises Alarm Over Rising Dispatch Rider Crashes in Lagos, Unveils Safety Push

(LASTMA. Photo Credit: Konfam FM)

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has raised serious concerns about the growing number of road accidents involving dispatch riders and commercial motorcyclists on the state's roads, using a dedicated stakeholders' forum to address the worsening situation.

The engagement, held at LASTMA's headquarters in Oshodi under the theme "Ride Smart, Stay Alive," brought together courier and dispatch operators, security agencies, transport unions, road safety advocates, and government officials to collectively discuss ways of curbing accidents and improving safety compliance among riders.

Speaking on behalf of the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Transportation, the Director of Transport Operations, Engr. Olasukanmi Ojowuro, urged dispatch riders to embrace responsible riding and adhere strictly to traffic regulations, stressing that such rules exist to protect lives rather than punish road users.

He noted that the forum was convened in direct response to the alarming rise in traffic violations, reckless riding, and fatal crashes involving dispatch riders on major Lagos roads.

LASTMA General Manager Olalekan Bakare-Oki acknowledged the vital role dispatch riders play in keeping goods and services moving across Lagos, but highlighted deeply troubling statistics from 2026, revealing that over 862 crash victims involving dispatch riders were rescued through emergency interventions in 2025 alone.

He added that more than 16,641 vehicles were impounded during the same period for various traffic offences including reckless driving, obstruction, and overloading.

Bakare-Oki identified several accident-prone routes including Eko Bridge, Lekki-Epe Expressway, Otedola Bridge, Ikorodu Road, Oshodi-Apapa Expressway, and railway crossings around Ikeja.

He attributed the crashes to a combination of reckless overtaking, driving against traffic, fatigue from long working hours, poor motorcycle maintenance, phone use while riding, and failure to wear safety gear. He also acknowledged the intense commercial pressure riders face to meet tight delivery deadlines, often at the expense of their own safety.

Lagos State Commissioner of Police CP Tijani Fatai called on courier companies to implement regular safety training, proper rider documentation, and stronger monitoring systems to improve accountability and professionalism within the sector.

The event, which was attended by representatives from numerous agencies including the FRSC, LASEMA, NDLEA, LASAMBUS, and others, featured interactive sessions and safety lectures, and was widely praised by participants as a timely and impactful initiative.