The Lagos State Taskforce intensified its enforcement of the ban on commercial motorcycles, popularly known as okada, arresting 63 riders on Friday, July 19, 2025.

The Lagos State Taskforce intensified its enforcement of the ban on commercial motorcycles, popularly known as okada, arresting 63 riders on Friday, July 19, 2025. The crackdown targeted key restricted areas and major highways including Mile 2 Oke Bridge, Berger Suya, Amuwo-Odofin, Apple Junction, and Festac, areas where okada operations are prohibited by state traffic laws.

According news reports, the operation was led by CSP Adetayo Akerele, and the operation formed part of the government’s ongoing efforts to curb unauthorized okada activities that jeopardize public safety and disrupt traffic flow. Over 90 motorcycles were impounded during the raid. Akerele warned that offenders, whether riders or passengers, would face prosecution under the law. He explained that the clampdown aligns with the THEMES PLUS Agenda, which seeks to restore discipline and prevent the criminal misuse of motorcycle routes.

“Those who flout the law are endangering lives by operating on these banned routes,” Akerele stated, noting that some arrested riders had previously been apprehended or warned but continued to defy court orders.

The arrests come amid growing public debate  about the place of okada in urban transport, alongside rising security concerns over their misuse in crimes such as robbery and drug trafficking. The Taskforce reiterated its zero-tolerance approach, urging Lagos residents to refrain from patronizing okada services in prohibited areas for their own safety.