Lagos taskforce cracks down on Okada operators

The Lagos State Taskforce has launched operations across several areas of the metropolis to enforce the state’s ban on motorcycles, commonly known as Okada.

The operation, which lasted for six hours, was executed under the directive of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Adegoke Fayoade.

The key areas targeted were Badagry Expressway, Mile 2, Second Rainbow Bus Stop, V-Naija Bus Stop, Alaba Suru, and Berger Bus Stop, where defiant okada operators have continued to flout the law.

Addressing the press, the chairman of the task force, CSP Adetayo Akerele, expressed the agency’s determination to end illegal Okada operations in the state.

Akerele noted that many operators mistakenly believed that the task force’s efforts would be limited to sporadic raids.

He emphasized that this perception was incorrect and warned that those who evade arrest will eventually face the law.

“Some operators attempt to shield themselves by claiming their motorcycles are owned by soldiers or are operated by military personnel, assuming this grants them immunity from arrest. However, I want to make it clear that there will be no sacred cows in our mission to sanitize the highways and restricted routes,” Akerele stated

The chairman reiterated the Lagos state government’s commitment to upholding the Road Transport Sector Reform Laws of 2018, which strictly prohibit Okada operations on all state highways.

He also issued a stern reminder to uniformed personnel who utilize okadas for transportation. According to Akerele, such personnel must be fully dressed in their official attire while on a bike, and only another fully kitted uniformed personnel is permitted as a passenger.

In addition to enforcing the law, Akerele urged commuters to refrain from patronizing okada operators, citing the significant safety and security risks associated with their services.

He pointed out that Okadas are often used by criminals as a quick means of escape, posing a threat to public safety.

“The activities of these operators will soon be a thing of the past, and the Agency is committed to leaving no stone unturned until all traffic rules and regulations are fully adhered to,” Akerele assured.

According to the director of press and public affairs, Lagos State taskforce, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem who stated that the operation marks a renewed effort by the Lagos State taskforce to restore order and safety on the state’s roads, with a clear message that non-compliance will not be tolerated.