Lagos, Nigeria – July 21, 2024** – The Lagos State Government has denied reports that worshippers will be charged for parking around churches. The clarification was made in a statement on Sunday by the General Manager of the Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA), Mrs. Adebisi Adelabu.
Mrs. Adelabu stated that the recent social media posts claiming that LASPA will begin charging churches and worshippers for parking on designated streets around places of worship starting October 2024 are inaccurate. She emphasized that the Lagos State Parking Policy is intended to reduce parking-induced traffic congestion throughout the state and will affect all motorists using the newly created 1,800 parking slots managed by LASPA.
“The post incorrectly stated that ‘Lagos State Parking Authority (LASPA) on Saturday announced it will from October 2024 charge churches and worshippers in Lagos state, who parked vehicles on designated streets around places of worship.’ To clarify, LASPA wishes to emphasize that this information is inaccurate and does not reflect the true intent of our communication,” the statement read.
Mrs. Adelabu explained that Lagos, like many other major cities, faces a high demand for parking spaces that exceeds the available supply. The regulated on-street parking model aims to manage parking resources more efficiently. Earlier this year, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu approved the introduction of regulated on-street parking, announced during a stakeholder’s forum on February 14, 2024, at the Lagos Marriott Hotel, Ikeja.
She also noted that religious organizations were adequately represented at the forum and have been informed about the upcoming implementation of the policy in October. The communication with these groups was meant to notify them of their roles and the financial aspects of using the designated parking lots.
Mrs. Adelabu assured that no specific religious group is being singled out by the policy. The aim is to ensure all stakeholders are informed and prepared for the regulated on-street parking scheme. The 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 1,800 additional parking slots.
“The management of these facilities will be overseen by concessionaires under the regulation of the Lagos State Parking Authority,” she added.
This clarification comes amid rising concerns and debates on social media regarding the implications of the parking policy on religious activities. The Lagos State Government urges residents to stay informed through official channels to avoid misinformation.
For further information, residents can contact LASPA or visit the official Lagos State Government website.
