Lagos Govt warns ‘korope’ drivers of unauthorised route deviations, illegal road parking

The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has warned commercial bus operators, especially drivers of mini buses commonly known as ‘Korope,’ on the importance of strictly adhering to traffic regulations, particularly regarding unauthorised route deviations.

The Special Adviser to the Lagos Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa, strongly directed all ‘Korope’ drivers to immediately cease plying unauthorised routes, emphasising that any act of defiance would result in the full application of legal sanctions.

The warning was contained in a statement by the Director, Public Affairs and Enlightenment Department, LASTMA,Adebayo Taofiq, on Tuesday, 1st of April 2025.

The statement partly reads:

“The Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) has issued an unequivocal admonition to commercial bus operators, particularly drivers of mini buses, colloquially known as ‘Korope,’ emphasizing the paramount necessity of unwavering adherence to traffic regulations, with particular regard to unauthorized route deviations.

“This resolute directive is in alignment with the government’s overarching initiative to instill orderliness on Lagos roadways and ensure the uninterrupted flow of vehicular movement across the metropolis.

“The Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Hon. Sola Giwa, emphatically directed all ‘Korope’ operators to immediately desist from utilizing unauthorized routes, underscoring that any act of defiance would attract the full weight of legal sanctions.

“He further articulated that LASTMA operatives have been duly mandated to escalate enforcement strategies aimed at curbing reckless driving and unlawful practices that hinder urban mobility and disrupt the city’s traffic ecosystem.

“Additionally, Hon. Giwa issued a categorical directive against the indiscriminate occupation of public roadways for unauthorized parking and loading activities, which significantly aggravate traffic congestion and pose substantial risks to other road users. He emphasized that, moving forward, all commercial operators must restrict their operations to designated bus stops and terminals to avert unwarranted impediments to vehicular circulation.” [CONTINUE READING HERE]>>>>>