Lagos State Taskforce has intensified its operations on the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, resulting in the seizure of 497 motorcycles popularly known as Okada, that were found plying the highway despite being prohibited from doing so.
The chairman of the task force, Shola Jejeloye, a chief superintendent of police, who disclosed this to journalists in Lagos yesterday, said the operations covered Doyin Bus Stop, Alakija, Iyana Iba, Igbo-Elerin, Festac Link Bridge and Igando.
He said the exercise was designed to stamp the commitment of the Lagos State Taskforce to enforce traffic regulations and maintain order and sanity on Lagos Roads.
He said the efforts were part of a broader initiative to enhance safety for all road users and eliminate the risks associated with Okada operations on restricted routes and Lagos highways.
The chairman described the activities of okada operators especially along Lagos-Badagry Expressway as reckless due to the nonchalant attitude of the operators on that corridor.
“Okada operators here are the cause of major accidents and a big threat to the security architecture of the state along this route, especially the ones you see facing oncoming vehicles directly on one-way. It is complete madness and I recommend anyone caught in the act be subjected to psychiatric evaluation” Jejeloye stated.
He said the task force achieved a remarkable record of seizures during the operation, signaling a clear message to okada violators that enforcement measures will be rigorously implemented in all nook and cranny of the state.
He reiterated the importance of compliance with traffic regulations and warned erring riders to desist from their operations along restricted routes immediately, saying failure to adhere to the regulations will result in the impoundment of motorcycles and possible jail term.