Lagos generates N1.9bn from traffic fines in 9 months

The Lagos state government has generated N1.9 billion from fines paid by traffic offenders in 9 months, according to a report by Open Nigerian States, a website supported by budgIT that acts as a repository for government budget data.

Generally, individuals who violated traffic rules in at least 12 Nigerian states paid N2.1bn fines in 9 months.

Lagos State, Nigeria’s commercial hub, registered the highest number of traffic offenders, leading the state to receive N1.9 billion during the reviewed period.

Osun state followed with N32.4 million, trailed by Oyo (N27.4 million), Ogun (N20.5 million), Plateau (N14.6 million), Delta (N9.1 million), Niger (N7.9 million), Cross-Rivers (N3.6 million), Enugu (N2.7 million), Kogi (N1.8 million), and Adamawa (N0.987 million).

The prevalence of fines in Lagos, is unsurprising, mainly owing to its dense population. Lagos is the most populous state in Nigeria, which is also the most populous country in Africa.

As contained in the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018, first-time offenders caught driving without a valid driver’s license face a fine of N20,000. For subsequent violations, the penalty includes either a N20,000 fine or an additional penalty of vehicle impoundment.

Disobeying traffic control personnel attracts N20,000 for a first-time offender, while subsequent offenders pay a fine of N30,000 and an additional penalty for the vehicle being impounded or going for (Lagos State Drivers’ Institute) LASDRI Training.

Failure to pay a penalty fee within the prescribed time attracts double the initial penalty.

In an earlier report, a study conducted by the Danne Institute for Research revealed that Lagos loses N4 trillion annually due to traffic congestion.

It also identifies behavioural factors as the primary culprits, including poor road infrastructure, activities of agberos at bus stops, buses picking up passengers, and violation of traffic laws.

The report revealed that Lagosians spend an average of 2.21 hours commuting daily, with 45 per cent spending more than two hours.