The Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA) says it is not targeting only churches in the implementation of the on-street parking policy.
Adebisi Adelabu, LASPA manager, said this in a statement on Saturday while reacting to reports that the agency will start charging worshippers who park vehicles on designated streets around churches from October.
The reports emanated from a LASPA letter dated July 19 and addressed to the Lagos branch of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).
“I am directed to inform your revered organisation that Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA) will be commencing its on-street parking scheme at designated streets within the Lagos state metropolis,” the letter reads.
“In view of this, I am using this medium to inform your eminence, that vehicles parked on designated streets by the church and its members, will be charged hourly and indiscriminately parked vehicles will be enforced upon accordingly.
“Consequently, we advise that this piece of information be adhered with as a law abiding organization.”
But Adelabu said the reports do not “reflect the true intent” of the letter.
She clarified that LASPA is rather implementing the on-street parking policy that was approved by the state government in February.
Adelabu said the policy is “to mitigate parking-induced traffic congestion” across the state.
The manager said LASPA is only informing stakeholders of the incoming implementation of the policy in October.
“Like many other major cities worldwide facing similar challenges, Lagos is experiencing a high demand for parking spaces that exceeds available supply. Therefore, we are adopting a regulated on-street parking model to better manage parking resources efficiently,” Adelabu said.
“Earlier this year, the Governor approved the introduction of regulated on-street parking, which was announced during a stakeholder’s forum held on February 14, 2024, at the Lagos Marriott Hotel, Ikeja.
“As part of our efforts to inform stakeholders, including religious organizations who were adequately represented at the forum, about the upcoming implementation in October, LASPA communicated with umbrella bodies representing these groups. One of such correspondences was referenced in a news release making the rounds.
“It is important to clarify that no specific religious group is being singled out by this policy. Our aim is to ensure all stakeholders are informed and prepared for the implementation of the regulated on-street parking scheme.
“Additionally, Lagos State Government has designated and lane-marked suitable roads for on-street parking across major zones such as Ikeja, Surulere, Victoria Island, Ikoyi, and Lekki, creating approximately 1800 additional parking slots.
“The communication sent to religious institutions serves to notify them of their respective roles and the financial aspects of utilizing these designated parking lots. The management of these facilities will be overseen by concessionaires under the regulation of the Lagos State Parking Authority.”
