Lagos Taskforce Impounds 278 Motorcycles in Fresh Crackdown on Illegal Okada Operations

The Lagos State Taskforce has intensified its enforcement campaign against commercial motorcycle operators violating the state's ban on Okada activities along highways and other restricted routes, impounding 278 motorcycles during a weeklong operation across the state.

The development was disclosed in a statement by the Director of Public Affairs of the Lagos State Taskforce, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, who said the exercise was carried out in line with the Lagos State Government’s directive and the provisions of the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018.

According to Abdulraheem, the operation forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen security, protect lives and property, and curb the activities of criminal elements within the state. He added that the exercise aligns with the commitment of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Fatai Tijani, to maintaining public safety and order.

The enforcement drive was conducted across several strategic locations, including 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, among others.

Officials said many commercial motorcycle operators were arrested for illegally operating on highways and restricted routes in defiance of existing regulations. Some riders were reportedly found transporting petroleum products, gas cylinders, and other hazardous materials, while others were caught conveying school children and toddlers under unsafe conditions on major roads.

At the end of the operation, a total of 278 motorcycles were seized, with authorities stating that the exercise had helped improve compliance and restore order in affected areas.

The Taskforce further announced that all impounded motorcycles would be processed for forfeiture to the Lagos State Government through the courts, in accordance with the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018.

Speaking on the outcome of the operation, the Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, reiterated the agency’s resolve to sustain enforcement efforts until full compliance is achieved.

“We will not be intimidated or relent in our responsibility. Lagos will not be surrendered to criminal elements or individuals who choose to disregard the law,” Akerele stated.

The Taskforce assured residents that enforcement operations against illegal commercial motorcycle activities would continue across the state as part of efforts to improve road safety, security, and traffic management.