24th March, 2024
The Lagos State Taskforce says it has impounded 470 commercial motorcycles, popularly known as okadas in different parts of the State in the last one week.
The operation, spanning various strategic locations including Berger, Fagba, Dopemu, Iyana Ipaja, 2nd Rainbow, Festac, First Gate, Alakija, Mile 2, Ilasan, Maroko, Lekki, Ikota, and Chevron, resulted in the confiscation of 150, 120, and 250 motorcycles, respectively, from these areas.
The Chairman of Taskforce, CSP Shola Jejeloye stated that most okada operators seen riding their bikes believed the ban would be over and they would be allowed to creep back to the highways.
“Any right-thinking okada operator would at this point realise that it is not business as usual. Our operations have been precise and consistent which indicates that there is no room for okada in Lagos,” he said.
Jejeloye emphasised the unwavering commitment of the Lagos State Government to eradicate okada operations, aligning with the master plan outlined in the THEMES PLUS Agenda of the State Government.
Highlighting the inherent risks associated with motorcycle transportation, he urged commuters to prioritise safer alternatives like the new blue/red line railway services and millennium bus services to avoid potential bodily harm by okada or prosecution by the state government if caught on a bike.
Jejeloye further disclosed that the concerted efforts of the Lagos State Taskforce supported the state government’s dedication to promoting a safe, secure and habitable environment, fostering responsible transportation practices, and ensuring the well-being of all Lagosians.
He appealed to okada operators still operating in the shadows to seek other legitimate means of survival or relocate out of the State.
He assured Lagosians that the agency would carry on with its raids across all restricted areas, highways and bridges till okada operations become a myth.