The Lagos State Taskforce has issued a stern rebuttal to viral online reports alleging that its officials engage in the systematic extortion of vehicle owners to secure the release of impounded automobiles.
Securitynewsalert.com learned that the agency, which is responsible for enforcing the state’s traffic and environmental laws, characterised the allegations as “false, malicious, and a calculated attempt to tarnish the image of the Taskforce and its leadership.”
The controversy stems from a report published by an online media outlet linked to Objective Television, which claimed that Taskforce officers demand bribes before releasing seized vehicles.
In a statement released on Monday, the Director of Public Affairs for the Agency, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, categorically denied these claims. The Agency insists that all impounded vehicles are processed through established legal channels.
“All enforcement operations are properly documented and carried out strictly within the provisions of the law,” Abdulraheem stated. “Cases involving impounded vehicles are processed through appropriate legal channels, with offenders charged to court where necessary; the Taskforce does not assume the role of judge in such matters.”
The statement offered a robust defence of the Taskforce Chairman, CSP Adetayo Akerele. Describing him as a “lawyer and seasoned police officer with a reputation built over decades of professional service,” the Agency dismissed claims that the chairman had any improper engagement with the reporter.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Chairman only met the reporter during a Lagos State House of Assembly briefing, and no exchange of phone numbers took place as claimed,” the statement added.
The Taskforce further alleged that the reporter failed to conduct basic investigative journalism, noting that the author had previously conflated the activities of the BRT Monitoring and Enforcement Team on the Ikorodu corridor with those of the Taskforce.
The agency posited that the defamatory reports might be an attempt to intimidate officials into releasing traffic violators without due process. They warned that such tactics undermine public safety and the rule of law.
“We urge journalists to uphold professionalism and avoid biased or defamatory reporting,” the statement read, adding that individuals dissatisfied with enforcement actions should “seek redress through the courts rather than resort to undue influence or media pressure.”
While the Taskforce remains firm on its enforcement of traffic regulations—including the prohibition of driving against traffic and the operation of commercial motorcycles (Okada) on restricted routes—it welcomed constructive engagement.
“Any member of the public with credible evidence of misconduct by our personnel is encouraged to come forward,” the agency assured, promising that verified reports of malpractice would be met with disciplinary action in accordance with police service regulations.
The Agency concluded by reaffirming its mandate under the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018, pledging to continue its duties while resisting what it termed as “intimidation, blackmail, or undue influence.” #Securitynewsalert.com
