Lagos State Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS) has announced that all rickety vehicles found on the roads will now be seized permanently.
This action, according to the agency, is part of a renewed crackdown on unsafe vehicles that pose serious risks to motorists and pedestrians.
The directive was issued on Sunday by the Director of the Lagos State VIS, Akin-George Fashola.
He explained that the step was necessary due to the growing number of road accidents caused by vehicles in poor condition.
These unsafe vehicles, he noted, often experience unexpected breakdowns or complete brake failure while on busy roads, leading to avoidable accidents.
“These vehicles are a danger to both their occupants and other road users,” Fashola stated. “They often break down without warning or suffer brake failure, especially in high-traffic zones, which increases the chances of serious accidents.”
Fashola revealed that mechanical faults such as expired tyres, faulty brake systems, and corroded body parts were common in many of the vehicles still operating in Lagos.
He warned that any such vehicle found by officials would be confiscated permanently and not returned.
Furthermore, the agency assured residents that it would continue to work closely with road transport unions and other relevant bodies to enforce safety compliance.
The goal, according to Fashola, is to ensure that all commercial and private vehicles meet roadworthiness standards before operating.
In addition, Lagosians were urged to be alert and avoid boarding vehicles that appear to be in bad shape, especially at night.
“We encourage everyone to prioritise their safety and avoid vehicles that could endanger lives,” he said.
To support this initiative, members of the public are being encouraged to report unfit vehicles through the agency’s complaint platforms.
Fashola assured that such reports would be taken seriously and acted upon swiftly. “The safety of Lagosians remains our top priority,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Lagos VIS has started engaging transport unions to further raise awareness about this safety initiative.
According to the director, this collaborative approach is expected to improve compliance among drivers and reduce the number of unsafe vehicles on the roads.
By seizing and permanently removing rickety vehicles in Lagos from circulation, authorities hope to prevent future tragedies, enforce traffic laws more effectively, and promote a culture of safety that protects everyone on the road.
