LASG cracks down on e-hailing firms over safety concerns

The Lagos State Government has issued a strong warning to e-hailing companies and their drivers, citing growing safety concerns, deteriorating vehicle conditions, and repeated breaches of transportation regulations.

In a statement by Bolanle Ogunlola, Deputy Director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of Transportation, Commissioner for Transportation, Oluwaseun Osiyemi, revealed that immediate vehicle inspections will be enforced, and only roadworthy cars will be allowed to operate under licensed e-hailing platforms.

“Any vehicle found unsuitable will not be allowed to operate. This directive is part of a wider audit aimed at improving service delivery, safety, and regulatory oversight in the sector,” Osiyemi stated.

The commissioner raised alarm over an increase in poor service delivery and criminal activities linked to e-hailing platforms, warning that operators who fail to meet state requirements could face sanctions, including license suspension.

One major concern, according to the ministry, is the absence of comprehensive and up-to-date databases by some e-hailing firms, which hinders investigations and incident tracking.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olawale Musa, stressed that only vehicles registered with the Lagos State Government and drivers certified by the Lagos State Drivers’ Institute will be permitted to operate. He also revealed the development of a new digital regulatory system to ensure real-time monitoring and compliance.

The ministry further advised commuters to avoid offline bookings, as they bypass built-in safety and accountability measures available on official apps.

Representatives from major platforms, including Uber, Bolt, Lagride, Laurie, and InDrive, responded by outlining new safety measures such as enhanced driver verification, panic buttons, license validation, and improved onboarding procedures.

Osiyemi concluded by urging operators to prioritise safety and customer satisfaction over profits, stressing the need to settle outstanding licensing documentation without delay.

This latest enforcement drive forms part of the Lagos State Government’s commitment to ensuring safety, accountability, and regulatory compliance in the rapidly expanding e-hailing industry.