The Lagos State Taskforce has lived up to the State Government’s expectation of zero tolerance to the menace of okada in the Metropolis by carrying out a special operation where 355 bikes popularly known as okada were impounded for operational infractions.
The unique exercise which was led by the Chairman of the Agency, CSP Shola Jejeloye took place in various locations across the city and lasted over five hours due to the rigorous tactical methodology required to execute it. Jejeloye disclosed that the operators of Okada on Highways in Lagos seem to be daring but they are no match for the will and might of the Taskforce.
“Our success today is one of a kind as a result of the number of bikes seized in this axis. We had visited Alakija and Abule Ado weeks ago but we had to revisit here again and also included Trade Fair/Badagry Expressway this time to achieve this result, and also send a clear message to these intractable okada riders”, he said.
Jejeloye further stated that the Agency came fully prepared for the operation leaving all seven trucks filled with confiscated okada. He further disclosed that the intense operation carried out by the Agency would be extended to every nook and cranny of the State till the war against Okada is completely won.
He highlighted the complexities involved in effecting the arrest of an okada rider which is more difficult than apprehending an armed robber.
His words, “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 by maneuvering and riding against traffic, thereby endangering their lives, that of passengers and other road users”.
The Chairman assured Lagosians that every part of the State where their activities have been banned will be visited and cleansed until their operations become a thing of the past. He urged residents to stop patronising okada riders and make use of safer means of transportation befitting of a mega city like Lagos.
Jejeloye equally reminded them of the position of the law which finds both the rider and passenger culpable if caught riding on okada on the State Highways or areas where their activities have been completely banned.
