The Lagos State Taskforce has clarified its enforcement procedures on commercial motorcycle (Okada) operations, reaffirming its commitment to public safety, integrity and the rule of law.

The agency, in a statement issued by its Director of Public Affairs, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, expressed concern over what it described as misleading and unsubstantiated claims circulating on social media regarding its enforcement activities, including allegations of extortion, illegal sale of seized motorcycles, use of unauthorised persons, abuse of force and compromise of leadership integrity.

According to the statement, commercial motorcycles are apprehended only after due process through the Mobile Court for violations of the Lagos State Road Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018, particularly for operating on routes prohibited by the state government.

explained that all seized motorcycles are transferred to the Ministry of Transportation and subsequently crushed at the government-approved junk yard in Alausa, stressing that seized motorcycles are never sold back to operators or diverted for personal gain.

The agency added that this policy has contributed to a significant reduction in illegal okada operations across the state. It, however, noted that seized vehicles, unlike motorcycles, are auctioned by the state government through court-approved and transparent processes.

Abdulraheem further clarified that it does not engage civilian touts, noting that its paramilitary operatives may operate in plain clothes as part of intelligence-led operations, a standard practice in law enforcement. It stated that all officers involved in enforcement are trained personnel operating within approved frameworks.

The agency observed that enforcement against illegal Okada operators often poses serious risks due to aggressive resistance and the danger to passengers, officers and other road users, adding that operations are therefore conducted with tact and safety as a priority.

It also disclosed that intelligence reports have shown that many operators apprehended in restricted areas are non-Nigerians without proper documentation, noting that criminal elements sometimes exploit the Okada business to evade scrutiny and perpetrate unlawful activities. According to the Taskforce, this makes illegal Okada operations a broader public safety and security concern beyond traffic management.

The statement reaffirmed confidence in the leadership of the Taskforce Chairman, CSP Adetayo Akerele, describing him as a disciplined and highly respected officer with a strong record of professionalism and integrity. It dismissed allegations of personal enrichment or complicity in unlawful practices as baseless and unfounded.

On the use of tear gas, the Taskforce said it remains a globally accepted crowd-control measure deployed by trained and authorised personnel under strict guidelines to prevent escalation and protect lives.

The agency urged members of the public to verify information through official channels before sharing unverified claims on social media, stressing its unwavering commitment to ensuring a safe, orderly and secure environment for residents of the state. (The Nation)