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The Lagos State Government has impounded 10 heavy-duty trucks for flouting the ban on articulated vehicles using the Third Mainland Bridge.
The crackdown was carried out by a newly formed enforcement team tasked with ensuring strict compliance with the state’s traffic laws, particularly on restricted routes like the iconic bridge.
Sola Giwa, Special Adviser to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Transportation, made this known in a statement released on Sunday and signed by Taofiq Adebayo, spokesperson for the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA).
Giwa emphasized that the operation, which took place over the weekend, reflects the state government’s unwavering commitment to public safety and infrastructure protection.
“This initiative demonstrates the government’s zero-tolerance approach to violations that threaten public safety and the structural integrity of key transport corridors,” he said.
According to him, truck operators had been adequately informed through stakeholder meetings, awareness campaigns, and official notices warning them of the restrictions on the Third Mainland Bridge. Yet, despite these efforts, some continued to defy the law.
The Third Mainland Bridge, which connects Lagos Island to the mainland, is restricted to vehicles weighing nine tonnes or less. This rule was reinforced following significant rehabilitation work on the bridge, which made weight restrictions crucial for its long-term durability.
“The restriction is not arbitrary,” Giwa explained. “It is based on engineering assessments and supported by traffic regulations. Violators will now face serious consequences.”
To aid enforcement, Giwa revealed that the bridge is now equipped with high-definition surveillance cameras for real-time monitoring and automated tracking of violations. LASTMA officials have been directed to strictly enforce the restrictions without exception.
“These tech upgrades ensure swift identification of violators and enable consistent enforcement,” he added.
Giwa noted that this clampdown is part of a wider strategy by the Sanwo-Olu administration to encourage responsible road usage and preserve vital infrastructure.
“This measure is preventive, not punitive. It’s about preventing structural fatigue and keeping traffic flowing safely. Offending vehicles will be impounded, and their operators sanctioned in line with the law,” he concluded.
