The Lagos State Task Force has announced the impoundment of 309 motorcycles during a coordinated enforcement operation along the Lagos-Badagry Expressway. The exercise, aimed at improving traffic flow, restoring order, and strengthening security along the busy corridor, was conducted in collaboration with the Lagos State Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources and supported by the Lagos State Police Command.
Operation Targets Restricted Routes and Environmental Infractions
The operation is the latest in a series of enforcement exercises by the Lagos State Government targeting commercial motorcycle operators on restricted routes. Authorities are intensifying efforts to enforce traffic, environmental, and public safety regulations. The exercise also targeted illegal structures, street trading, and other environmental infractions around the Alaba Rago International Market and other parts of the corridor.
According to the agency’s spokesperson, Abdulraheem Gbadeyan, the operation was part of the state government’s efforts to strengthen public safety and prevent criminal elements from operating under the guise of commercial activities, as reported by Nigerian Tribune on Sunday. Gbadeyan stated that the exercise aligns with the Lagos State Government’s THEMES Plus Agenda and complements ongoing security efforts by the Lagos State Police Command to tackle kidnapping, banditry, and other forms of crime.
Locations Covered and Impoundment Details
The enforcement covered several locations along the ECOWAS Road and the Lagos-Badagry Expressway, including Orile-Iganmu Bus Stop, Suuru-Alaba Bus Stop, Mile 2 Underbridge, Mazamaza Bus Stop, Festac First Gate, Iyana-Ira, Abule-Ado, Alakija Bus Stop, Iyana-Iba, Alaba Rago, Old Ojo Road, and Okoko Bus Stop. Gbadeyan confirmed that 309 commercial motorcycles were impounded during the operation.
The exercise reflects the state’s continued enforcement of restrictions on commercial motorcycles operating on designated highways and other prohibited routes under the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018. State authorities have consistently defended the policy, citing improvements in road safety, easing of traffic congestion, and reduction in crimes associated with motorcycles in restricted areas.
Dismantling of Illegal Structures and Obstructions
Gbadeyan explained that enforcement officers also dismantled illegal kiosks, makeshift stalls, shanties, and unauthorised plank structures. They removed abandoned household items, domestic animals obstructing public spaces, indiscriminately displayed building materials, and other obstructions along the highway. The operation improved traffic flow, cleared public spaces, and enhanced environmental compliance across the affected areas.
The spokesperson stressed that the impounded motorcycles would be processed for forfeiture through the courts in accordance with the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018. He added that the agency would continue similar enforcement operations across the state until full compliance with existing laws is achieved.
Task Force Chairman Vows to Restore Sanity
Speaking after the operation, the Chairman of the Lagos State Task Force, Adetayo Akerele, described the level of lawlessness and indiscriminate development along the corridor as alarming. He noted that illegal ticketing, street trading, and the activities of commercial motorcycle operators in restricted areas had created an environment that encouraged criminality, traffic congestion, and environmental degradation.
“No stone will be left unturned in our determination to restore sanity. It is high time criminal elements operating in Lagos State desist from these unlawful activities or relocate,” Akerele said. “We will continue to enforce the law without fear or favour in order to guarantee a safer, cleaner, and more orderly Lagos for everyone.”
