Scores of commercial motorcyclists popularly called ‘Okada’ riders, reportedly clashed with officials of Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences (Enforcement) Unit, also known as Task Force, who were on a routine enforcement of the state ban on motorcycle operations at the Idi Araba area of the State on Tuesday. 

The Lagos government banned motorcycle operations in some locations since June 1, 2022. The affected Local Government Areas are Apapa, Eti Osa, Ikeja, Lagos Island, Surulere and Lagos Mainland.

The authorities already seized thousands of bikes which are now routinely crushed publicly.

Reacting to the recent face-off, Lagos Police Command has assured residents of safety.

Spokesperson for the Command, Benjamin Hundeyin denied reports that the riders fought security personnel.

“The Taskforce went well prepared. They (riders) were just causing a scene after Taskforce left with some of their impounded motorcycles”, Hundeyin said, adding that the Rapid Response Squad (RRS) and men from the Area Command have been drafted to the scene.

Hundeyin said there is  “absolutely nothing to worry about”.