BRT Lane Abuse Will Attract Fines, Vehicle Seizure – LAMATA

The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) has raised concern over the increasing misuse of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lanes by unauthorised users across the state.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, the agency identified offenders to include some military and paramilitary personnel, buses operated by local governments and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), as well as private vehicle owners.

LAMATA reiterated that BRT lanes are strictly reserved for buses and vehicles operating under its regulated franchise system. It noted that only emergency vehicles, such as ambulances and fire service trucks, are permitted to use the lanes—and only when responding to emergencies.

The authority described the growing abuse as alarming, warning that it undermines the efficiency, safety, and purpose of the BRT system.

According to LAMATA, the BRT corridor was created to ensure fast, safe, and reliable mass transit for commuters. It stressed that unauthorised use disrupts operations, endangers lives, worsens traffic congestion, and reverses progress made in improving urban transportation in Lagos.

The agency emphasised that regulations governing the use of BRT lanes remain fully in effect and will be strictly enforced. It warned that violators, regardless of their status or affiliation, will be arrested and prosecuted in line with Lagos traffic laws.

Penalties for offenders, LAMATA said, may include fines, impoundment of vehicles, and other legal sanctions.

The authority urged all road users, including security agencies and government institutions, to comply with the rules and respect the integrity of the BRT system.

It added that cooperation from all stakeholders is vital to maintaining an efficient and world-class transport network, assuring residents of its commitment to enforcing order, safety, and efficiency across Lagos roads.