Lagos task force to begin clampdown on ‘okada’ riders

By Nneka Nwogwugwu

The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences (Enforcement) Agency (TASKFORCE) is set for total clamp down on all recalcitrant okada operators on the restricted routes on Lagos Highways.

This the agency said will help to free the state from the menace and unruly attitudes threatening the security architecture of the State as encapsulated in the T.H.E.M.E.S. Agenda of Mr Governor.

The Unit will embark on mass raids and confiscation of all Okada found on the highways, restrict routes and prosecute both the riders and passengers who are culprits, with a view to achieving the State’s vision of zero tolerance for Okada operation.

The Chairman of the State Taskforce, CSP. Shola Jejeloye made the statement on Sunday during the decoration of newly promoted officers attached to the Unit at the conference room of the Agency Headquarters, Safety Arena, Bolade, Oshodi, Lagos.

He disclosed that within this year alone over 1,654 motorcycles known as Okada have been impounded at various locations of the State for plying restricted roads and violating the State Laws on its restrictions on major highways.

He said that the Agency had taken her enforcement for compliance activities to Ogba, Cele-Ijesha Expressway, Jakande Estate Okeafa, Allen Avenue, Oshodi Mile 12, Ojodu Berger, Ketu Alapere, Agric in Ikorodu, Agege areas to mention but a few in the State within the first two weeks of January this year.
CSP Jejeloye said that the restricted routes have been published severally to avoid unnecessary excuses of not being aware of the State laws on their restriction by Okada operators, but some of them chose to turn deaf ears, and all efforts put in place by the Enforcement Agency to sensitize, educate and enlighten them on the dangers of plying on the highways proved abortive.

‘’Hence, we have no reason not to match force with their aggressiveness and lawlessness this time around’’ he said.

Speaking further, the Chairman said that all the restricted routes will be closely monitored to rid the State of Okada riders’ menace which could lead to needless loss of lives and serious security challenges.

Source: Vanguard