The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Enforcement Unit (Task Force) has impounded no fewer than 600 commercial motorcycles, popularly known as okada, during an enforcement operation across the state.
The operation, which took place over the weekend, also led to the arrest of seven riders for allegedly attacking enforcement officers and violating traffic laws.
Chairman of the Task Force, CSP Shola Jejeloye, said the motorcycles were seized in areas where the state government had banned their operations due to safety and security concerns.
>Despite repeated warnings, some riders have continued to defy the ban on okada operations in restricted corridors. Our enforcement team will continue to clamp down on violators until full compliance is achieved,” Jejeloye stated.
He explained that the arrested suspects would be prosecuted in line with state laws, while the seized motorcycles would be crushed as a deterrent to others.
The Task Force boss stressed that the government would not compromise public safety, noting that okada operations had been linked to rising cases of accidents, crime, and traffic disruptions in the state.
Residents in affected communities commended the move, saying it would help restore order on major roads, though some lamented the impact on commuters who rely on motorcycles for quick transportation.
The Lagos State Government reiterated its call on residents to embrace safer and more regulated means of transportation while urging okada riders to seek alternative livelihoods.
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