The Lagos State Taskforce has dismissed allegations circulating online that it unlawfully impounded a 250cc motorcycle belonging to a human rights advocate, insisting that the enforcement action followed due legal process.
In a statement issued on March 25, 2026, the agency described the claims—reportedly made by Comrade Rufus Olusesan and Comrade Chinedu Bosah and shared by Objectv—as misleading and inaccurate.
According to the Taskforce, the motorcycle was seized after its rider, identified as Mr. Babatunde, was caught violating traffic regulations by riding against traffic along the Cement Bus Stop inward Ile Zik axis in Ikeja. The rider was also said to be carrying two passengers without helmets at the time of the incident.
Officials stated that the rider resisted arrest and engaged in a physical struggle with officers, during which some uniforms were torn, before he was eventually subdued and the motorcycle impounded.
The agency further alleged that the rider, alongside three others who identified themselves as human rights activists affiliated with the Nigerian Labour Congress, later attempted to bribe officers with ₦20,000 to secure the release of the motorcycle. The offer, it said, was rejected as the case had already been processed for prosecution.
The Taskforce denied claims that its officials demanded ₦50,000, describing such allegations as false and intended to mislead the public.
Reaffirming its stance, the agency stressed that no individual is above the law, regardless of status or affiliation, noting that identifying as a human rights advocate does not exempt anyone from compliance with traffic regulations.
It also dismissed accusations of high-handedness, stating that offenders are routinely charged to court in line with established legal procedures, adding that the judiciary remains the appropriate channel for resolving disputes.
The statement highlighted that the Chairman of the agency, CSP Adetayo Akerele, is a trained lawyer and seasoned police officer with a commitment to due process and human rights.
The Taskforce further noted that the complainants had earlier submitted a petition but failed to follow through using the appropriate channels, despite being given the opportunity to monitor the case.
In a related development, the agency addressed a viral video circulated by Mr. Segun Olawoye, clarifying that the incident, initially reported in 2025, involved an impostor and not a Taskforce operative. It added that efforts were made to apprehend the suspect before the matter was resolved after a refund was made to the complainant.
The agency cautioned against the spread of recycled or misleading content aimed at discrediting its operations, urging the public to disregard such narratives.
While acknowledging that enforcement actions may sometimes be unpopular, the Taskforce maintained that they are necessary to ensure order and public safety, reiterating its commitment to professionalism, fairness, and adherence to the rule of law.