Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Unit (Taskforce) says it has confiscated 668 commercial motorcycles, popularly known as okada, during a week-long enforcement operation across the state.
The Chairman of the Task Force, CSP Adetayo Akerele, disclosed this in a statement released on Sunday by the unit’s spokesperson, Mr Abdulraheem Gbadeyan.
According to Akerele, the operation was part of a continuous effort to enforce the state’s ban on okada along restricted routes and highways. He noted that despite repeated warnings, some operators persist in violating the law, creating serious safety and security concerns.
The enforcement exercise, which began on Monday, covered several identified black spots, including Ishaga, Balogun Bus Stop on Iju-Ishaga Road, Ijegun Roundabout, Iyana-Iba, Iyana-Ishasi, Igbo-Elerin, and Iyana-School. Other flashpoints raided included Volkswagen Bus Stop along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, Kola Bus Stop on the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, and adjoining restricted routes.
“These areas were targeted following numerous complaints and distress calls over the activities of okada operators who are often linked to hoodlums, pickpockets, and suspected robbers, particularly during late-night hours,” Akerele explained.
He added that the trend had given rise to a new wave of criminality, necessitating decisive action by the Task Force to protect lives and property.
The chairman revealed that resistance was encountered at some locations, especially at Kola Bus Stop, where hoodlums and some riders attempted to obstruct officials.
“They were, however, dispersed with minimal force. Seven suspects were arrested, no injuries were recorded, and normalcy was restored,” he said.
Akerele reiterated the government’s resolve to maintain law and order, warning defiant okada riders to desist from operating on prohibited routes.
He also stressed that all motorcycles seized during the operation would be processed through the courts and subsequently crushed, in line with existing state laws.
