The Lagos State Task Force has seized 278 commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, during a weeklong enforcement operation carried out across various parts of the state.
The exercise was aimed at enforcing the ban on motorcycle operations on highways and restricted routes, in line with the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018.
According to authorities, the operation is part of an ongoing crackdown that began weeks earlier, as the state government intensifies efforts to improve public safety and strengthen security across Lagos.
The enforcement covered several 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.
Officials said riders were arrested for operating on prohibited routes and major highways in violation of traffic and safety regulations.
They also revealed that some of the motorcycles were used to transport hazardous materials such as petroleum products and gas cylinders, while others were found conveying school children and toddlers under unsafe conditions.
The Task Force added that the impounded motorcycles would be processed for possible forfeiture to the state government through the courts, in accordance with the transport law.
Chairman of the Lagos State Task Force, Chief Superintendent of Police Adetayo Akerele, stated that enforcement would continue until full compliance is achieved.
He emphasized that the agency would not relent in its efforts to rid the state of illegal operations and ensure order on the roads.
BACKSTORY…
The seizure of 278 commercial motorcycles (Okada) by the Lagos State Task Force is part of an ongoing enforcement campaign against illegal motorcycle operations across the state.
Over the years, the Lagos State Government has restricted Okada operations on several highways and designated routes under the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018. The policy was introduced as part of broader efforts to reduce traffic congestion, curb road accidents, and improve public safety, especially on busy and high-risk roads.
Despite these restrictions, some riders have continued to operate on banned routes, often using major highways and carrying passengers in ways authorities consider unsafe. In some cases, reports have also linked Okada operators to the transport of hazardous materials and unsafe passenger practices, including carrying school children in high-traffic areas.
It was against this backdrop that the Lagos State Task Force carried out a weeklong enforcement operation across several parts of the state, including areas such as Ikorodu, Iyana Ipaja, Ojodu, and Egbeda, among others.
The latest operation is part of a broader and recurring crackdown aimed at ensuring compliance with the state’s transport laws. Authorities say the enforcement will continue as part of efforts to maintain order on the roads and improve safety for commuters.
