Lagos Taskforce Intensifies 2026 Crackdown on Okada Riders Along Expressways

By Mbaegbusi Desmond | DESSY'S BLOG | 

The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Unit, Taskforce, has stepped up enforcement against commercial motorcycle riders, Okada, operating on highways and expressways in 2026.

278 Okada Impounded in One Week – June 2026

The Taskforce impounded 278 illegal commercial motorcycles during a weeklong operation across Lagos. 

Chairman CSP Adetayo Akerele said the exercise was carried out under the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law, 2018, which bans Okada on highways, bridges, and other designated expressways.

Areas covered in June include Ikorodu, Agric Bus Stop, Festac First Gate, Mazamaza, Iyana-Iba, Idimu Road, Egbeda, Kola Bus Stop, Iyana Ipaja, Ikotun Roundabout, Berger Bus Stop, Ojodu, Akowonjo, Igando, LASU-Iba Road and Pipeline Road.

63 More Riders Nabbed in Single Sweep

In a separate June operation, 63 Okada riders were arrested along Mile 2 Oke Bridge, Mile 2 Under Bridge, Berger Suya, Amuwo Odofin, and Apple Junction, Festac. 

Akerele said: “The ban on Okada operations in certain areas was put in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all Lagosians, and we will not tolerate any breach”.

Focus on Lagos–Badagry Expressway – Alaba Rago Corridor

The Taskforce issued a 72-hour quit notice to traders and Okada operators along the Alaba Rago corridor on the Lagos–Badagry Expressway, also called ECOWAS Road. 

Akerele described the area as a “strategic gateway” that cannot be allowed to deteriorate under illegal activities. He warned that after the notice expired, goods of violators would be confiscated and offenders prosecuted.

 Why the 2026 Crackdown

Authorities say safety and security are driving the renewed enforcement. During June operations, some riders were caught transporting petroleum products and gas cylinders. Others were found carrying school children and toddlers on busy expressways.

The Taskforce also cited criminal activity. Complaints received include riders dispossessing passengers of phones, jewelry, and bags, and harassing commuters at bus stops.

*5. Clashes During Enforcement*

The crackdown has led to confrontations. 46 Okada riders were arrested after allegedly attacking Taskforce officials under Oshodi Bridge on the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway. 12 others were arrested in Alapere, Ketu, for attacking operatives with stones and iron rods, damaging vehicles.

Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, is leading the renewed security drive.

 Legal Processing and Forfeiture

All impounded motorcycles will go through legal processing for possible forfeiture to the Lagos State Government through the courts, in line with the 2018 Transport Law.

Akerele warned that uniformed personnel must not operate commercial motorcycles on restricted routes. “If you are properly dressed in your official uniform and not carrying passengers, your colleagues may exercise discretion to avoid arrest,” he said.

. Government’s Position for 2026

Lagos maintains that the ban covers 475 designated roads, including expressways, bridges and major highways. The Taskforce says over 5,000 motorcycles have been seized in cumulative crackdowns, with many crushed to serve as deterrence.

“Enforcement will continue until operators comply fully,” Akerele stated. “We will not fold our arms and allow illegalities to overrun Lagos.”

Impact on Riders and Commuters.

Okada unions have appealed for a review of restricted routes, arguing many are federal roads. Commuters report higher fares on banned routes since enforcement intensified.

RTEAN has also set up its own taskforce to arrest members driving against traffic and Okada riders found on highways.

With 278 motorcycles impounded in one week and 63 in a single sweep, Lagos is signaling a zero-tolerance stance for Okada on expressways in 2026. The Taskforce says compliance, not confrontation, is the way forward.