Akerele Alleges Blackmail, Links Online Attacks To Enforcement Of Traffic Laws In Lagos
OLORUNDARE ENIMOLA, Lagos
The Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, has alleged that recent online attacks against him and the agency are the result of his refusal to grant preferential treatment to certain social media operators seeking the release of impounded vehicles.
Speaking on a radio programme, Bosenlo, aired on Lagos Traffic Radio 96.1FM, Akerele identified the individuals as Sheriffdeen Ojon and a platform known as Objectv.
He accused them of persistently lobbying for the release of motorcycles, popularly known as okada, and other vehicles seized for traffic violations, particularly for driving against traffic.
According to Akerele, the requests were denied in line with existing traffic regulations, prompting what he described as a coordinated campaign to discredit him and the agency.
He claimed to have evidence, including screenshots of Facebook conversations, allegedly showing requests for favours and subsequent threats of blackmail and online smear campaigns when those requests were not granted.
“It is both sad and embarrassing that individuals who should be using their social media platforms to disseminate meaningful information have instead turned them into tools for blackmail, intimidation, and the spread of falsehoods,” he said.
The Taskforce chairman reiterated provisions of the Lagos State Road Traffic Law (2018), noting that vehicles caught driving against traffic are liable to forfeiture to the state government.
He stressed that strict enforcement of the law is necessary to address the dangers of one-way driving, which he said has contributed to accidents, fatalities, and lasting trauma for victims’ families.
Akerele urged the public to be cautious of information circulating on unverified platforms, describing such content as potentially misleading. He also reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to enforcing traffic laws without bias.
He added that neither he nor the Taskforce would be deterred by intimidation, maintaining that the agency remains focused on ensuring safety and order on Lagos roads.
