By Demi Adeniyi
The Lagos State Taskforce has raided Oshodi, Lagos Abeokuta Road and Ikorodu Road where recalcitrant commercial motorcycle riders have returned to the streets.
The raid which was led by the Chairman of the Agency, CSP Shola Jejeloye was carried out at the closing hours on Thursday and a total of 37 bikes were impounded from the riders.
“It is disheartening seeing these recalcitrant riders operating commercial bikes on the State’s highways and restricted routes thereby endangering the lives of their passengers and the pedestrians. We have sent out series of warning through our official channels but it fell on deaf ears, thus the need to carry our this enforcement exercise”
The ban on commercial operation of okada on restricted routes and all the State’s Highways is still in place, therefore no one, caught still operating will be spared”
“I am sounding this note of warning to every okada operator and their passengers who think they are sacred cows that cannot be touched. It will no longer be business as usual. Anyone caught operating on restricted corridors will face the court
The Chairman disclosed that compliance to the State laws has to start with good men and women who have the interest of the State at heart.
He further said that anyone who is not disciplined cannot discipline others.
In a related development, the Lagos State Taskforce carried out an extensive raid of suspected hoodlums along Oshodi Bridge, Mosafejo and Army Arena axis where 48 suspects were apprehended.
The raid which took place in the early hours of Friday lasted for over 5 hours in order to ensure a complete mop of areas known for criminal habitation and activities.
The Chairman of the Agency stated that raids along these black spots will be continous in order to stamp out hooliganism and criminality from the State.
“Our feedbacks from members of the public help us streamline our operational activities to areas that affect them the most. Raids along Oshodi in particular will be continuous and frequent till criminal elements take their trade elsewhere.