Lagos Taskforce Denies Misconduct Allegations, Says Traffic Offender Not Above Law

OLORUNDARE ENIMOLA, Lagos

The Lagos State Taskforce has dismissed allegations of misconduct levelled against its officials, insisting that a motorcyclist identified as a human rights advocate was lawfully apprehended for violating traffic regulations.

In a statement issued on March 25, 2026, the agency refuted claims circulating online that its operatives unlawfully impounded a 250cc motorcycle belonging to one Mr. Babatunde.

The statement, reportedly signed by Comrade Rufus Olusesan and Comrade Chinedu Bosah and disseminated by Objectv, had alleged that such motorcycles were permitted to operate freely on Lagos roads.

However, the Taskforce clarified that the motorcycle was seized after the rider was caught driving against traffic along the Cement Bus Stop inward Ile Zik corridor in the Ikeja area. According to the agency, the rider, bearing registration number DKA 510 QC, was also conveying two passengers without safety helmets at the time of arrest.

Officials stated that the suspect resisted arrest and engaged in a physical struggle with operatives, during which some officers had their uniforms torn before he was subdued and the motorcycle impounded.

The agency further disclosed that the rider, alongside three others who also identified themselves as human rights activists affiliated with the Nigerian Labour Congress, later approached the Officer-in-Charge of Ikeja, ASP Gamagins Kaffaru, in an attempt to secure the release of the motorcycle with a ₦20,000 bribe.

The offer, according to the Taskforce, was rejected as the case had already been processed for prosecution.
The Taskforce also debunked allegations that its officials demanded ₦50,000 from the suspect, describing the claim as false and misleading.

Reiterating its stance, the agency emphasized that no individual or group is exempt from the law, regardless of status or affiliation. It maintained that identifying as a human rights advocate does not confer immunity from traffic regulations or lawful enforcement.

Addressing claims of “high-handedness,” the Taskforce noted that once an offence is established, due process requires that the matter be taken to court, adding that the judiciary remains the appropriate channel for resolving disputes.

The statement highlighted that the agency’s Chairman, CSP Adetayo Akerele, is a trained lawyer and seasoned police officer with a track record in human rights advocacy, underscoring the Taskforce’s commitment to fairness and the rule of law.

It also revealed that the complainants had earlier submitted a petition to the Chairman’s office but failed to follow up through the appropriate channels despite being given the opportunity to monitor the case.

In a related development, the Taskforce addressed a viral video circulated by Mr. Segun Olawoye, clarifying that investigations conducted in 2025 showed the individual featured in the footage was not a Taskforce operative but an impostor.

The agency said efforts were made to apprehend the suspect before the complainant later confirmed that the matter had been resolved after a refund was made, following police intervention.

The Taskforce warned against the spread of misinformation, describing such narratives as attempts to discredit the agency and incite public sentiment.

While acknowledging that enforcement actions may not always be popular, the agency reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining order and public safety through lawful and professional conduct.