Lagos taskforce impounds 470 motorcycles

The Lagos State Taskforce led by Shola Jejeloye, a Chief Superintendent of Police, has impounded 470 motorcycles in a week-long operation.

A statement by Gbadeyan Abdulraheem Director, Press & Public Affairs, Lagos State Taskforce on Monday said the seizure was as a result of intensified efforts to enforce the ban on motorcycle (popularly known as Okada) operations in restricted areas across the state.

The statement added that the development was part of the Lagos State Government’s commitment to aligning with the master plan of its THEMES PLUS Agenda.

The statement read, “In a week-long operation, a total of 470 motorcycles were seized, marking a significant stride in the ongoing endeavour to safeguard motorist and maintain sanity on Lagos Highways.

“The operation, spanning various strategic locations including Berger, Fagba, Dopemu, Iyana Ipaja, 2nd Rainbow, Festac, First Gate, Alakija, Mile 2, Ilasan, Maroko, Lekki, Ikota, and Chevron, resulted in the confiscation of 150, 120, and 250 motorcycles, respectively, from these areas.

“Any right thinking okada operator would at this point in time realise that it is not business as usual. Our operations have been precise and consistent which indicates that there is no room for okada in Lagos.

“CSP Shola Jejeloye emphasized the unwavering commitment of the Lagos State Government to eradicate Okada operations, aligning with the master plan outlined in the THEMES PLUS Agenda of the State Government. Highlighting the inherent risks associated with motorcycle transportation, he urged commuters to prioritize safer alternatives like new blue/red line railway services and Milennium bus services to avoid potential bodily harm by okada or prosecution by the state government if caught on a bike.”

CSP Jejeloye appealed to Okada operators still operating in the shadow to seek other legitimate means of survival or relocate out of the state.

He assured Lagosians that the agency would carry on with its raids across all restricted areas, highways and bridges “till Okada operations becomes a myth.”