Okada Ban: Lagos taskforce impounds 355 motorcycles

No fewer than 355 commercial motorcycles, popularly called Okada, have been impounded by operatives of the Lagos State Taskforce.

Operatives of the Taskforce, led by the chairman of the agency, CSP Shola Jejeloye, carried out the operation in the enforcement of the State Government’s zero-tolerance for the menace of Okada in the Metropolis.

In a statement signed by Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, Director, Press & Public Affairs, Lagos State Taskforce, on Tuesday, the chairman of the agency noted that the operation, which lasted for over five hours due to the rigorous tactical methodology required to execute it,  took place in various highway locations across the city.

“Our success today is one of a kind as a result of the number of bikes seized on this axis. We visited Alakija and Abule weeks ago but had to revisit here again. We also included Trade Fair/Badagry Expressway this time to achieve this result and also send a clear message to these intractable okada riders,” the statement said.

Jejeloye further stated that the agency came fully prepared for the operation, leaving all seven trucks filled with confiscated okada.

“It is evident to these Okada riders that there is no place for them in a megacity like Lagos; that is the reason we have continued hitting them back to back till they flee or turn over a new leaf.”

Furthermore, he disclosed that the intense operation carried out by the agency would be extended to every nook and cranny of the state until the war against Okada was completely won.

He emphasized the complexities involved in effecting the arrest of an okada rider, which he disclosed is 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 bikes. Once they sight us, they can do and undo it by manoeuvring and riding against traffic, thereby endangering their lives, passengers, and that of other road users.”

The chairman told Lagosians that they will visit and clean up areas where their activities have been outlawed until they are no longer there.

He encouraged locals to quit using okadas and instead adopt safer modes of transportation appropriate for a megacity like Lagos.

He reminded them of the law, which holds both the rider and the passenger liable if discovered riding a commercial motorcycle on state highways or in locations where their actions are prohibited.

It will be recalled that Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, as reported by Chronicle NG, announced a total ban on commercial motorcycles in six local government areas of Lagos State.

The Lagos State Government said that effective June 1st, 2022, commercial motorcycles must halt operations in the whole of Ikeja, Surulere, Eti Osa, Lagos Mainland, Lagos Island, and Apapa Local Government Areas.