Tension flared on a busy Lagos street when a commercial bus driver stripped completely naked in open protest after officials of the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority impounded his vehicle.

According to eyewitnesses, LASTMA operatives stopped the driver for alleged traffic violations, including obstruction and route infractions. When attempts to plead with the officers failed and the bus was seized, the driver reacted by tearing off his clothes in the middle of the road. The act instantly drew a large crowd of commuters and passersby, causing a temporary traffic snarl as people stopped to watch and record the incident.

Videos from the scene show the visibly agitated driver shouting and gesturing at the LASTMA officials while naked, as some bystanders tried to calm him down. The officers maintained their position and called for backup to manage the crowd and restore order.

This is not the first time confrontations between commercial drivers and LASTMA have turned volatile. Operators often accuse traffic officials of high-handed enforcement and unclear fines, while LASTMA maintains that many drivers routinely flout traffic laws, drive against traffic, and resist arrest. The standoff reflects a deeper trust gap between enforcement agencies and transport workers in the state.

Lagos authorities have repeatedly warned against public disturbances and self-help during arrests. The state advises drivers to comply first and then challenge penalties through the LASTMA Complaints Unit or mobile courts. Officials say dramatic protests do not stop the enforcement process and can attract additional charges for public indecency and breach of peace.

As of press time, it was not clear whether the driver was taken into custody or released after the incident. LASTMA has yet to issue an official statement on this specific case.

Source: punch news.