The Lagos State Government has issued a strong warning to e-hailing operators over rising safety concerns and repeated violations of transport regulations, ordering immediate vehicle inspections and strict compliance with state laws.
In a statement by Bolanle Ogunlola, Deputy Director of Public Affairs at the Ministry of Transportation, Commissioner Oluwaseun Osiyemi said the government had noted the deteriorating condition of some vehicles on licensed e-hailing platforms. “Any vehicle found unsuitable will not be allowed to operate,” he declared, adding that the directive is part of a wider audit aimed at improving service quality, enhancing passenger safety, and strengthening regulatory oversight in the rapidly growing sector.
Osiyemi expressed concern over the growing number of poor service complaints and criminal incidents linked to e-hailing platforms. He warned that operators who fail to meet safety standards face sanctions, including possible suspension of operating licences. He also identified the absence of comprehensive driver and vehicle databases on many platforms as a major obstacle to effective investigations. “The state government is committed to safeguarding lives and property. We will not tolerate practices that endanger Lagosians,” he said.
Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Olawale Musa, announced that only vehicles registered with the Lagos State Government will be allowed to operate on e-hailing platforms, citing security and tracking risks. “We have developed a digital system that depends on up-to-date data to regulate the sector. All drivers must be duly registered and certified by the Lagos State Drivers’ Institute,” Musa explained, warning that violations will attract strict penalties. He also advised passengers to avoid booking rides offline, noting that such arrangements bypass the safety and accountability features of official apps.
In response, representatives from licensed operators, including Uber, Bolt, Lagride, Laurie, InDrive and others, outlined planned safety upgrades. These include enhanced driver verification, the introduction of panic buttons, licence validation, and improved onboarding and offboarding processes.
Concluding the meeting, Osiyemi urged operators to prioritise passenger safety and welfare over profits. “Operators must settle all outstanding licensing documentation and comply fully with regulatory requirements without delay,” he said.
The state government’s crackdown aims to ensure that only safe, compliant vehicles and certified drivers remain in operation, while restoring public confidence in e-hailing services. Officials have pledged decisive action against any company or driver found in violation, underscoring their commitment to protecting lives and property in Lagos.
