Lagos again seizes 470 okadas, says no room for motorcycles on highways

The Lagos State Government has intensified its efforts to enforce the ban on motorcycle operations, popularly known as okada, in restricted areas across the state.

In a week-long operation, the Lagos State Taskforce, led by CSP Shola Jejeloye, seized a total of 470 motorcycles were seized on Lagos Highways.

A statement on Monday said the  operation spanned various strategic locations including Berger, Fagba, Dopemu, Iyana Ipaja, 2nd Rainbow, FESTAC, First Gate, Alakija, Mile 2, Ilasan, Maroko, Lekki, Ikota, and Chevron, resulted in the confiscation of 150, 120, and 250 motorcycles, respectively, from these areas.

Jejeloye stated that most okada operators seen riding their bikes believe the ban would blow over and they would be allowed to creep back onto the highways, but that would not be the case.

He said“Any right thinking okada operator would at this point in time realise that it is not business as usual. Our operations have been precise and consistent which indicates that there is no room for okada in Lagos.”

Jejeloye said the Lagos State Government was committed to eradicating okada operations, aligning with the master plan outlined in the THEMES PLUS Agenda of the state government.

Highlighting the inherent risks associated with motorcycle transport, he urged commuters to prioritize safer alternatives like new blue/ red line railway services and  Milennium Buses services to avoid potential bodily harm by okada or prosecution by the government if caught on any bicycle.