The Lagos State Police Command has said officers of the Command are permitted to drive against traffic when on emergency duty, citing provisions of the National Road Traffic Regulations.

The clarification was made in response to a viral video showing a Rapid Response Squad patrol vehicle driving against traffic.

The video, which circulated on social media on Monday, November 3, 2026, showed youths in Lagos confronting police officers after spotting a police Hilux driving on a one-way lane. The youths were heard questioning why officers should violate traffic rules while enforcing the same laws against civilians.

In the footage, one of the youths was heard saying, “Look at Nigeria Police Hilux using a one-way lane, but if it’s another person, they will arrest the person.” The confrontation sparked debate online over police accountability and equal application of traffic laws.

Responding to the incident, the Command explained that security and emergency responders are exempted under certain circumstances. Officers on urgent security assignments, distress calls and pursuit of criminals are allowed to use unapproved routes, including driving against traffic, to respond swiftly.

The Command noted that the National Road Traffic Regulations and the Lagos State Road Traffic Law recognise emergency exemptions for police vans, ambulances, fire trucks and other first responders when on duty. It added that such exemptions are not a licence for routine lawlessness.

It however cautioned motorists not to use the movement of emergency vehicles as an excuse to violate traffic rules. The police said any civilian who follows security operatives to drive against traffic commits an offence punishable under Part III, Schedule 1, Item 27 of the Lagos State Road Traffic Law, which provides for up to one year imprisonment and possible forfeiture of the vehicle.

The Command, led by Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism and urged members of the public to report any misconduct by officers through official complaint channels rather than resorting to confrontation.