Some Lagos residents have expressed concern over the growing recklessness and aggressive behavior of Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) drivers on major routes across the city.

Speaking to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday, commuters called on the Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) and traffic officials to intensify monitoring and retraining of drivers.

According to residents, many BRT operators ignore traffic rules, intimidate other road users, and create dangerous situations that put lives at risk.

Mrs. Toyin Alabi, who commutes daily along the Ikorodu–TBS corridor, described the drivers’ behavior as alarming. She recounted a recent incident at Agric Bus Stop in Ikorodu, where the impatience of PRIMERO and TATA BRT drivers caused an accident, resulting in traffic disruption and a smashed bus windshield.

“You can’t even drive near them without fearing they’ll swerve into your lane without warning,” she said.

Mr. Kunle Aina, who drives along the Yaba-Oshodi route, described BRT drivers as arrogant, adding that they sometimes block smaller vehicles to assert dominance. He noted that dedicated BRT lanes are often violated, worsening congestion.

Commercial driver Mr. Ismail Adebayo attributed several minor accidents to BRT operators’ reckless driving, while tricycle operator Uche Okafor described their behavior as “intimidating,” citing constant horn-blasting and forcing other road users aside.

Pedestrian Mrs. Abimbola Ojo also recounted narrowly avoiding being hit by a BRT bus while crossing at Onipanu bus stop, calling for mandatory retraining and regular assessments to ensure driver competence.

Responding, LAMATA’s Head of Communications, Mr. Kola Ojelabi, clarified that BRT drivers are employed by operating companies, not directly by the agency. He stated that while drivers undergo regular training, misconduct sometimes stems from individual attitudes.

Ojelabi encouraged commuters to report incidents using bus number plates and code numbers to facilitate appropriate sanctions. He noted that erring drivers have been punished or dismissed in the past and blacklisted from future employment with any Lagos BRT operator.

“We are reforming the system so that everyone will be happy, not one where drivers bully commuters. The commuter is king,” Ojelabi said.