The Lagos State Parking Authority has issued a strong warning to individuals and groups engaging in illegal parking fee collection within the Computer Village axis of Ikeja, Lagos, urging them to desist or face prosecution.
The agency disclosed that it had uncovered a network of fraudulent operators allegedly working with touts to extort motorists by collecting unauthorised parking charges in the busy commercial area.
In a statement released by its General Manager, Adebisi Adelabu, the authority said illegal actors operating around the Ikeja Under-Bridge and Computer Village area were charging unsuspecting motorists as much as N1,000 for parking.
She further noted that some motorists, after paying these illegal fees, still face additional sanctions such as fines, plate number removal, or vehicle towing when official enforcement teams carry out operations, resulting in double losses for victims.
Adelabu clarified that parking regulation and enforcement in the area rest solely with LASPA, stressing that neither the Lagos Central Business District authority nor any private group is empowered to collect parking fees.
“We are aware of these fraudulent activities, and we want to make it clear that LASPA is the only government body legally mandated to oversee parking in Lagos State,” she stated.
Describing the situation as unacceptable, she added that such activities undermine government efforts to create an orderly and efficient parking system across the state.
“These illicit operations are a disservice to the public and a setback to the state’s efforts to build a structured parking ecosystem,” she said.
According to her, the agency has stepped up surveillance and enforcement across Computer Village and other parts of Lagos to curb the activities of illegal operators.
She warned that offenders would be arrested and prosecuted, advising motorists to remain cautious and patronise only authorised parking officials.
“Motorists should ensure they deal only with LASPA-registered operators who can provide valid identification and official receipts,” she cautioned.
The agency also encouraged members of the public to report suspicious activities through its official communication channels for prompt action.
