Motorists Claim Broken Signals Create Daily Chaos
Residents and motorists in Enugu State have raised concerns over worsening traffic conditions across the state capital.
They accuse traffic officials under the Ministry of Transport of exploiting faulty traffic lights to extort road users through heavy fines.
Faulty Traffic Lights Cause Confusion on Major Roads
A review of key junctions in Enugu shows repeated signal failures. At Edozie Junction along Zik’s Avenue, the amber light reportedly flashes too briefly for motorists to react safely.
At the Agbani Road and Zik’s Avenue junction, drivers report conflicting green signals appearing at the same time. This has increased the risk of road accidents.
Motorists say these faults create confusion instead of improving traffic flow.
Allegations of Extortion and Revenue Pressure
Stakeholders allege that traffic officers take advantage of the situation to issue fines and extort drivers.
They claim that officers face daily revenue targets set by the Ministry of Transport. Reports suggest these targets reach millions of naira.
According to residents, this pressure has shifted enforcement from safety to revenue generation.
Claims of Selective Enforcement
There are also allegations of unequal enforcement of traffic laws.
Commercial drivers and tricycle operators reportedly escape penalties after making informal payments to officials.
Some government transport services are also said to avoid sanctions despite traffic violations, raising concerns about fairness.
Controversial Fine Policy Sparks Debate
The Ministry of Transport reportedly introduced a strict penalty system that includes a ₦500,000 fine for one-way driving violations.
The policy also requires compulsory psychiatric evaluation for offenders.
Critics describe the measures as excessive, especially in a system where traffic signals remain unreliable.
Public Calls for Immediate Reform
Public pressure is mounting for urgent action from the state government led by Peter Mbah.
Residents demand the immediate repair and synchronisation of traffic lights across the city.
They also call for the removal of revenue targets for traffic officers and better training to ensure ethical enforcement.
Growing Distrust in Traffic Management System
Many residents now say the system has lost credibility. They argue that traffic management has shifted from public safety to revenue collection.
Without reforms, motorists warn that road safety in Enugu will continue to decline.
