In a bold move reminiscent of former Lagos State Governor Babatunde Fashola’s no-nonsense approach to governance, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu took decisive action on Tuesday, January 2, 2024. The governor personally ordered the arrest of commercial motorcyclists who were caught riding against traffic along the busy Lagos-Badagry expressway.
This act echoes Fashola’s famous arrest of military officers for a similar traffic violation in 2012, sparking memories of a governance style characterized by zero tolerance for lawlessness.
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s swift action
A video shared on Twitter by one of the governor’s media aides captured the moment Governor Sanwo-Olu halted his convoy upon spotting motorcyclists engaging in the dangerous act of riding against traffic. Unfazed by his position, the governor ordered his security detail to pursue the erring riders. Some of them fled, abandoning their motorcycles to evade the chase.
In a display of no-nonsense leadership, Governor Sanwo-Olu personally confronted one of the riders who claimed to be a soldier. The governor directed his security operatives to apprehend the individual and place him in one of the SUVs in his convoy. The video clip reveals the stern exchange between the governor and the arrested motorcyclist.
A glimpse into the confrontation
As the arrested individual insisted that he was a soldier, Governor Sanwo-Olu responded emphatically, “That’s even more reason I’m going to lock you up.” The governor directed the motorcyclist to get into the vehicle, dismissing him as a “useless boy” and reiterating his determination to take decisive action against such lawlessness.
“Put him there, let your father come and rescue you,” Governor Sanwo-Olu asserted, showcasing a commitment to upholding traffic regulations and ensuring accountability, irrespective of the individual’s claimed military status.
The Fashola parallel: A history of zero tolerance
This recent incident bears striking similarities to the 2012 arrest by former Governor Babatunde Fashola, where he apprehended two military officers, Colonel Kayode Yusuf and Sergeant Aliu Adeomi, for driving on the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lane. In that episode, Fashola demonstrated a firm stance against breaches of regulations and emphasized a zero-tolerance policy for lawlessness.
When questioned by journalists after the arrest, Fashola asserted, “There is zero tolerance for the breach of our regulations, and we are going to do more of this.” The former governor’s uncompromising stance on enforcing order and preserving lawfulness became a hallmark of his tenure.
A bold move towards order and accountability
Governor Sanwo-Olu’s actions along the Lagos-Badagry expressway underscore his commitment to maintaining law and order in the state. By mirroring Fashola’s approach, he sends a strong message that adherence to traffic regulations and governance accountability will be prioritized. The swift arrest of the motorcyclists serves as a reminder that no one, regardless of their claimed status, is above the law in Lagos State.
Governance style: A continuation of Fashola’s legacy
As Governor Sanwo-Olu channels his inner Fashola, the people of Lagos witness a continuation of a governance style characterized by a proactive response to violations, an unwavering commitment to enforcing rules, and an emphasis on accountability. The arrest serves as a clear signal that the current administration will not tolerate actions that jeopardize public safety and disregard established regulations.
Future implications for traffic management
This incident sets the tone for improved traffic management, deterrence of unlawful activities, and a safer road environment for Lagosians. Governor Sanwo-Olu’s decisive action is expected to resonate with residents and encourage compliance with traffic laws. As the governor focuses on transforming Lagos into a smart city, such incidents reinforce the importance of civic responsibility and adherence to established regulations for the overall benefit of the state and its residents.
