By: Peace Udugba
“LASTMA Cracks Down on Use of ‘Union Stickers’ as Vehicle Registration in Lagos”
The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has issued a firm directive to transport unions and related associations across the state, demanding an immediate halt to the illegal practice of placing ‘Union Stickers’ on private vehicles in place of valid registration numbers.
The General Manager of LASTMA, Mr. Olalekan Bakare-Oki, condemned the practice as a clear violation of existing transport regulations, describing it as a serious security breach and a blatant attempt to bypass the official vehicle identification system in Lagos.
He emphasized that under the state’s security framework, all vehicles operating on public roads must be properly registered and documented through the appropriate government regulatory bodies.
Mr. Bakare-Oki further cautioned that the spread of such unauthorised identifiers poses risks to public safety, obstructs law enforcement efforts, and erodes the integrity of legal registration processes.
He reaffirmed that the Lagos State Government will not tolerate any attempt—by individuals or groups—to circumvent or undermine established procedures through the use of illegal insignia.
In this regard, the General Manager revealed that LASTMA, in collaboration with security agencies and other enforcement bodies, will intensify surveillance along strategic routes to ensure full compliance with the law.
He stated unequivocally: *“Any vehicle found operating on public roads with so-called ‘Union Stickers’ or other unauthorised symbols in place of valid registration will be immediately impounded, and the offenders will face the full weight of the law.”*
Mr. Bakare-Oki urged all transport union members to adhere strictly to proper vehicle registration protocols, stressing that such compliance goes beyond administrative order—it is essential to ensuring the safety and security of all Lagos residents.
The Lagos State Government, through LASTMA, therefore calls for the continued cooperation of all stakeholders in cleaning up the transport sector. The agency assures the motoring public that firm enforcement will be maintained to protect lives, safeguard property, and uphold the integrity of traffic management throughout the state.
