The management of the Lagos Task force has explained why its operatives raided an ”Okada garage” at Agric Farm Estate in Ojo Local Government Area to make arrests during an enforcement.

In a statement, the agency’s Director of Public Affairs,Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, said the raid followed due process as it arose from a petition from the Community Development Associations (CDAs), comprising Olugbemi, Habeeb, Aiyedoto and Otubu, on the illegal activities of commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada.

The operators, he said, allegedly use the estate and adjoining communities as a base after operating on the highways.

He was reacting to reports that it illegally raided the area.

Besides, Abdulraheem said, the CDAs were worried too about the defecation in the drains and green areas on Badagry Expressway, reckless motorcycle riding, and obstruction of inner roads.

The communities further alleged that these activities of the operators had resulted in injuries to residents, pedestrians and schoolchildren, he lamented.

Earlier, Abdulraheem had said, the CDAs had stated that attempts were made to regulate the operators through the introduction of estate-branded vests to identify and report erring operators. But, the communities alleged that their interventions were resisted and, and on some occasions, weapons deployed.

The CDAs had also petitioned the state government through the state task force on May 23, and July 30, this year. A surveillance had followed the raid on August 25.

”The Task force also wishes to emphasise that the arrest of suspected illegal commercial motorcycle operators and impoundment of motorcycles within Agric Farm Estate, formed part of enforcement against the okada on highways, bridges and other restricted routes in Lagos.

The enforcement was, therefore, in tandem with commercial motorcycle operations and mandate of the agency, the task force insisted.

”The Task force is particularly concerned by attempts to portray enforcement against illegal and dangerous activities as an attack on innocent residents. The agency’s responsibility is to protect public safety, maintain order and ensure compliance with the laws of Lagos State,” the statement said.

The statement added that the Task Force Chairman, Chief Superintendent of Police Adetayo Akerele, remained focused on his duties and would not be swayed by any one trying to portray him or the task force in bad light.

”The Chairman has consistently supported enforcement initiatives aimed at preventing criminal activities, restoring order and protecting residents from activities capable of undermining the State’s security architecture.

”His participation in enforcement initiatives, including Operation Kó Ṣàyé, aligns with the broader security objectives of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Rilwan Disu, to disrupt criminal activities and prevent criminals from exploiting operational gaps across Lagos.

”The Task Force, therefore, rejects any attempt to portray legitimate enforcement activities as personal vendettas or arbitrary actions.

”The agency equally finds it curious that its chairman continues to feature prominently in Objectv’s reports and commentaries whenever enforcement activities are discussed. However, the Task force will not be distracted by personal attacks, sensational reporting or attempts to undermine the credibility of its leadership.”

The added that the Nigerian Police leadership and state government were aware of the activities of the agency and its management.

Abdulraheem, however, advised the media and public to verify facts before publishing or disseminating allegations that could mislead the public or damage the reputation of individuals and institutions. (The Nation)