Lagos Task Force impounds 278 illegal okada in one week

Lagos State Task Force has impounded 278 illegal commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, during a weeklong enforcement operation carried out across different parts of the state.

The enforcement exercise targeted operators violating the ban on commercial motorcycles on highways and restricted routes, as provided under the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018.

The operation followed an earlier crackdown conducted weeks ago and forms part of ongoing efforts by the state government to strengthen security and safeguard lives and property in line with the renewed enforcement drive championed by the Commissioner of Police, Mr Fatai Tijani.

Areas covered during the operation included Ikorodu, Agric Bus Stop, Festac First Gate, Mazamaza, Iyana School, Iyana-Iba, Idimu Road, Egbeda, Kola Bus Stop, Iyana Ipaja, Ikotun Roundabout, Ijaiye in Ojokoro, Berger Bus Stop, Ojodu, Akowonjo Roundabout, Igando Bus Stop, LASU-Iba Road and Pipeline Road in Idimu.

According to the Task Force, several riders were apprehended for operating on prohibited routes and major highways in defiance of traffic and public safety regulations.

The agency also disclosed that some of the riders were caught transporting hazardous materials, including petroleum products and gas cylinders, while others were found carrying school children and toddlers in unsafe conditions on busy roads.

Authorities stated that the impounded motorcycles would undergo legal processing for possible forfeiture to the Lagos State Government through the courts in accordance with the provisions of the 2018 transport law.

Chairman of the Lagos State Task Force, Chief Superintendent of Police Adetayo Akerele, said the enforcement exercise would continue until operators comply fully with the law.

“We will not be cowed or fold our arms and allow people of criminal intent to overrun Lagos or surrender to their illegalities,” he said.