VIDEO: LAGOS TASK FORCE IMPOUNDS 63 MOTORCYCLES IN FRESH CRACKDOWN

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By: Sefiu Ajape

The Lagos State Taskforce has stepped up its enforcement against commercial motorcycle riders, commonly referred to as Okada, apprehending 63 individuals for operating unlawfully along restricted routes in the state.

According to a statement released on Friday by the agency’s Director of Press & Public Affairs, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, the crackdown forms part of a broader initiative aimed at tackling the menace of “recalcitrant Okada operators” who continue to flout the ban on motorcycle operations along highways, bridges, and other designated no-go areas.

The Taskforce Chairman, CSP Adetayo Akerele, was quoted in the statement as saying that the latest enforcement sweep targeted areas including Mile 2 Oke Bridge, Mile 2 Under Bridge, Berger Suya, Amuwo Odofin, and Apple Junction within the Festac axis.

“The ban on Okada operations in certain areas was put in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all Lagosians, and we will not tolerate any breach of this order.

“Those who continue to operate in restricted areas, endangering the lives of road users, will face the full wrath of the law,” Akerele stated.

Despite continuous warnings and sensitisation campaigns, the Taskforce said many operators remain defiant.

“Some operators remain defiant, thereby endangering public safety.

“The 63 motorcycles impounded during today’s operation have been confiscated, and legal action will be taken against the violators,” the statement added.

Akerele reiterated the Lagos State Government’s commitment to maintaining law and order through its THEMES PLUS Agenda, and called on residents to cooperate with authorities.

“We call on members of the public to cooperate with law enforcement officers by reporting violations and desist from patronising Okada operators for their own safety,” he urged.

The Taskforce assured that patrols and enforcement will continue across the state, particularly in flashpoints prone to illegal Okada operations.