The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences (Enforcement) Unit (Taskforce) has impounded 309 commercial motorcycles during a major enforcement operation along the ECOWAS Road corridor, while also clearing Alaba Rago and adjoining areas of illegal structures and environmental infractions.
The operation, carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of the Environment and Water Resources and supported by the Lagos State Police Command, targeted the enforcement of the state government’s ban on commercial motorcycles on highways and other restricted routes.
Areas covered during the exercise included Orile-Iganmu, Suuru-Alaba, Mile 2 Underbridge, Mazamaza, Festac First Gate, Iyana-Ira, Abule-Ado, Alakija, Iyana-Iba, Alaba Rago, Old Ojo Road and Okoko Bus Stop.
According to the Taskforce, enforcement officers impounded 309 motorcycles operating illegally and dismantled illegal kiosks, makeshift stalls, shanties, unapproved plank structures, indiscriminately displayed building materials and other obstructions. Domestic animals found obstructing public spaces were also removed as part of efforts to restore order and improve traffic flow.
The agency said the exercise was designed to strengthen security, improve environmental compliance and deny criminal elements the opportunity to operate under the cover of illegal commercial activities. It added that the operation aligns with the Lagos State Government’s THEMES Plus Agenda and ongoing security initiatives by the Lagos State Police Command.
The Taskforce disclosed that all impounded motorcycles would be processed for forfeiture to the Lagos State Government through the courts in line with the provisions of the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018.
Speaking after the operation, Chairman of the Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, described the level of lawlessness and indiscriminate development along the corridor as disturbing.
He said illegal ticketing, street trading and the activities of commercial motorcycle operators had contributed to criminality, traffic congestion and environmental degradation.
Akerele reaffirmed the agency’s resolve to sustain enforcement operations across the state, warning that those engaging in unlawful activities must desist or face the full weight of the law.
“We will continue to enforce the law without fear or favour in order to guarantee a safer, cleaner and more orderly Lagos for everyone,” he said.