The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Unit (Taskforce) says it has impounded 668 commercial motorcycles, popularly known as okada, during a week-long enforcement operation across the state.
The agency’s chairman, CSP Adetayo Akerele, disclosed this in a statement issued on Sunday by the Taskforce spokesperson, Abdulraheem Gbadeyan.
Akerele explained that the exercise formed part of ongoing efforts to enforce the state government’s ban on okada operations along restricted highways and routes. He noted that despite repeated warnings, many riders continued to flout the directive, posing safety and security threats.
The raids, which began on Monday, targeted several identified black spots, including Ishaga, Balogun Bus Stop on Iju-Ishaga Road, Ijegun Roundabout, Iyana-Iba, Iyana-Ishasi, Igbo-Elerin, and Iyana-School. Other flashpoints covered were Volkswagen Bus Stop along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, Kola Bus Stop on the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, and adjoining restricted routes.
“These areas were targeted following numerous complaints and distress calls over the activities of okada operators, who are often linked to hoodlums, pickpockets, and suspected robbers, particularly during late-night hours,” Akerele said.
According to him, resistance was encountered at some locations, notably at Kola Bus Stop, where hoodlums and some riders attempted to obstruct officials.
“They were, however, dispersed with minimal force. Seven suspects were arrested, no injuries were recorded, and normalcy was restored,” he added.
The chairman reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, warning defiant operators to desist from restricted areas. He stressed that all impounded motorcycles would be processed through the courts and subsequently crushed in line with state laws.
The Lagos State government first announced a phased ban on okada operations in 2022, citing recurring accidents, traffic infractions, and their use in violent crimes. Since then, the Taskforce has carried out periodic raids, with hundreds of motorcycles seized and destroyed.
