Lagos Taskforce Debunks Allegations of Extortion, Defends Enforcement Procedures

The Lagos State Taskforce has strongly refuted accusations circulating on social media that its officials engage in extortion, illegal resale of impounded motorcycles, and excessive use of force during operations.

In a statement released on Friday, the agency described the claims as false and misleading, insisting that all its activities are carried out in strict compliance with the law.

The statement, signed by the Taskforce Director of Public Affairs, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, was issued in response to growing online criticism of its enforcement methods.

According to the agency, the arrest and confiscation of commercial motorcycles follow established legal procedures. It explained that operators found violating the Lagos State Road Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018, particularly those plying restricted routes, are prosecuted before the Mobile Court.

“These actions are judicially backed and not arbitrary,” the Taskforce said, emphasizing that its operations are guided by due process.

Addressing specific claims that seized motorcycles are resold to their owners or to the public, the agency categorically denied the allegation. It maintained that confiscated motorcycles are handled in accordance with government policy.

“Upon confiscation, seized motorcycles are transferred to the Ministry of Transportation and subsequently crushed at the government-approved junkyard in Alausa.

“At no point are seized motorcycles sold back to operators or diverted for personal benefit,” the statement read.

The Taskforce further clarified that while impounded motorcycles are destroyed, seized vehicles go through a different process. It noted that such vehicles are auctioned only through officially sanctioned channels approved by the courts and supervised by the state government.

Responding to reports that civilian touts are used during enforcement operations, the agency dismissed the claim and explained that some of its personnel operate in plain clothes for security reasons.

“The para-military operatives attached to the agency may operate in plain clothes as part of intelligence-led sting operations, a standard enforcement practice worldwide,” it stated.

The Taskforce also highlighted what it described as the security risks associated with illegal motorcycle operations in Lagos. It disclosed that intelligence findings indicate that many riders apprehended in restricted areas are non-Nigerians, some of whom lack proper documentation.

“Intelligence assessments indicate that criminal elements often exploit the okada business as a cover to evade scrutiny, infiltrate communities and foment disorder,” the agency said.

It added that the issue of illegal motorcycle activities extends beyond traffic management and should be viewed as “a broader public safety and security issue.”

The agency also rose in defense of its Chairman, CSP and Adetayo Akerele, following allegations that he personally benefits from enforcement activities. It rejected the claims as baseless and damaging.

“Every assignment entrusted to the Chairman has been discharged with the highest degree of responsibility, professionalism and integrity,” the statement said.

According to the Taskforce, his leadership has consistently reflected “commitment and sacrifice” toward maintaining order in the state.

On concerns over the deployment of tear gas during operations, the agency maintained that it is a globally accepted method of crowd control when used appropriately.

“Its use is governed by strict operational guidelines and is never applied arbitrarily,” the agency stated.

The Taskforce concluded by appealing to residents to be cautious about unverified information shared on digital platforms, warning that misinformation could erode public confidence in law enforcement.

“Lagosians deserve to live, work and commute in an environment that is safe, serene and secure, and the Taskforce remains unwavering in its commitment to that mandate,” the statement added.