The Lagos State Taskforce has advised residents to avoid using motorcycle operators, commonly known as ‘Okada’, emphasizing that they not only endanger passengers but also pose a security threat to the community.
According to the agency, Okada motorcycles have been utilized as a speedy escape method by criminals.
In a statement by the Director of Press and Public Affairs at the Lagos State Taskforce, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, the Agency’s Chairman, CSP Adetayo Akerele, highlighted this concern following coordinated operations against Okada riders operating illegally across various parts of Lagos.
The operation, spanning about six hours, was carried out under the guidance of the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, CP Adegoke Fayoade.
The Taskforce extended its operations to locations like the Badagry Expressway, Mile 2, Second Rainbow Bus Stop, V-naija Bus Stop, Alabasuru, and Berger Bus Stop where defiant Okada riders continued their unauthorized activities.
CSP Adetayo Akerele, the Agency’s Chairman, mentioned that many operators wrongly assumed that the Taskforce would conduct a one-off operation to deter them, but that is no longer the case.
He warned evading operators that they would face consequences if they persist in their activities.
Akerele also noted that some Okada operators hide behind alleging military ownership to avoid arrest, but all unauthorized operations on highways and restricted routes are prohibited by the state government.
The Taskforce chairman stressed the government’s commitment to enforcing the Road Transport Sector Reform Laws of 2018 which explicitly prohibit Okada operations on highways in the state.
He reminded uniformed personnel using Okada for transportation to ensure full compliance with safety measures and regulations set forth.
In conclusion, the public was urged to refrain from patronizing Okada riders due to the safety and security risks posed, with a promise from the agency to enforce traffic rules stringently to ensure compliance.