Lagos Task Force Impounds 278 Illegal Okada in One Week

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

The operation targeted commercial motorcycle operators found violating the ban on Okada activities along highways and other restricted routes as stipulated in the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018.

According to the agency, the exercise formed part of ongoing efforts by the Lagos State Government to improve public safety, strengthen security and ensure compliance with traffic regulations across the state.

The latest operation followed a similar enforcement exercise carried out weeks earlier and aligns with the renewed security and transportation enforcement strategy being implemented by state authorities.

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.

The Task Force stated that several motorcycle riders were arrested for operating on prohibited routes and major highways despite repeated warnings from the government.

Officials also disclosed that some of the apprehended riders were found transporting hazardous materials, including petroleum products and gas cylinders, in violation of safety regulations.

Others were reportedly caught carrying school children and toddlers in unsafe conditions on busy roads, exposing passengers and other road users to significant risks.

Authorities noted that the impounded motorcycles would undergo legal processing and may be forfeited to the Lagos State Government through court orders in accordance with provisions of the transport law.

Chairman of the Lagos State Task Force, Chief Superintendent of Police Adetayo Akerele, reiterated the agency’s commitment to sustaining the enforcement exercise until operators fully comply with the law.

He stressed that the government would not tolerate activities capable of endangering public safety or undermining security efforts in the state.

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

The Task Force urged residents and transport operators to comply with existing regulations and support efforts aimed at maintaining order, safety and security across Lagos State.