–Lagos Reporters
The Lagos State Police Command has ordered the immediate withdrawal of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation and Special Offences Unit, popularly known as the Taskforce, from all traffic control and enforcement duties across the state.
The directive affects the unit led by CSP Adetayo Akerele and follows a wave of allegations bordering on abuse of power, corruption, and intimidation of motorists.
According to the Command, the move is part of broader efforts to reform and streamline traffic management in Lagos, ensuring that only designated and appropriate agencies handle road enforcement responsibilities.
The Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, issued the directive as part of ongoing measures to promote professionalism, accountability, and operational clarity among enforcement bodies working on Lagos roads.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, confirmed that while the Taskforce has been relieved of traffic-related duties, it will continue to carry out its other statutory responsibilities without interruption.
“The Lagos State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that the Commissioner of Police has directed the immediate and complete withdrawal of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation and Special Offences Unit (Taskforce) from traffic control and traffic contravention enforcement across the State,” the statement read.
The Command emphasized that the decision is aimed at restoring order within Lagos’ often complex traffic management system while strengthening public trust in enforcement agencies.
Adebisi also cautioned residents against assuming that all officials operating under the label “Taskforce” belong to the same unit. He noted that multiple taskforce groups operate within Lagos, urging the public to verify the identity of officers before making complaints or allegations.
“The Command wishes to enlighten members of the public that the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation and Special Offences Unit is not the only Taskforce operating within Lagos State. Residents and motorists are therefore strongly advised to always verify the identity of personnel and agencies before making allegations,” he added.
The development is expected to significantly reshape traffic enforcement operations in Lagos, amid growing public concerns over misconduct by some enforcement officials.
Lagos Reporters will continue to monitor developments and provide updates on traffic management reforms and accountability measures across the state.
