23rd January, 2024
The Lagos State Taskforce has impounded 355 okadas in a special operation in different areas in Mile 2 and Lagos-Badagry Expressway.
The exercise which was led by the Chairman of the Agency, CSP Shola Jejeloye took place in various locations across the City and lasted over five hours due to the rigorous tactical methodology required to execute it.
Jejeloye disclosed that the operators of okadas on highways in Lagos seemed to be daring but said they were no match for the will and might of the Taskforce.
“Our success today is one of a kind as a result of the numbers of bikes seized in this axis. We have visited Alakija and Abule weeks ago but we had to revisit here again and also included Trade Fair/Badagry Expressway this time in order to achieve this result, and also send a clear message to these intractable okada riders,” he said.
The Chairman further stated that the Agency came fully prepared for the operation leaving all seven trucks filled with confiscated okadas.
“It is evident to these okada riders that there is no place for them in a mega city like Lagos, that is the reason we have continued hitting them back to back till they flee or turn over a new leaf,” he added.
Jejeloye further disclosed that the intense operation carried out by the Agency would be extended to every nooks and crannies of the State till the war against okada is completely won.
He highlighted the complexities involved in effecting the arrest of an okada rider which he said was more difficult than apprehending an armed robber.
“Arresting an okada rider is more difficult than arresting an armed robber because of the nature of these bikers. Once they sight us they can do and undo by maneuvering and riding against traffic, thereby endangering their lives, passengers and that of other road users,” he said.