Lagos Taskforce arrests 14,087 suspects as Chairman marks 1st year in office 

CITIZENS COMPASS—The Chairman, Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Enforcement Unit (Taskforce), CSP Adetayo Akerele, on Tuesday, marked first year in office saying that a total number of 14,087 suspects were arrested within the period.

Akerele said the suspects were arrested across black spots such as Oshodi, Mushin, Iju Ishaga Railway, Lagos Island, Mainland, Ikoyi, Obalende, and Marina among others.

Speaking at the anniversary cum the third media parley of his assumption of office which was held at the Lagos State Taskforce Headquarters, Bolade-Oshodi in Lagos State, the Chairman said after thorough screening, 1,287 suspects were released; 12,999 were arraigned resulting in a marked reduction in criminal activities in these areas.

He said 1,019 vehicles were impounded from Victoria Island, Apapa, Ikeja, Agege Motor Road, and other key areas.

Akerele reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to integrity, operational excellence, public safety, and best practices under his leadership since assuming office in June 2024.

He sought for media support for the smooth running of the Agency.

According to him, “This event coincides with my first anniversary in office as Chairman of the Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Enforcement Unit (Taskforce).

“We have gathered here today to seek your continued guidance, support, protection, and reportorial coverage of the activities of this agency as we carry out our statutory responsibilities.

“As you will all agree, we can no longer afford to keep “dancing in the dark.” Today’s parley pres

ents a moment for reflection and appreciation, particularly for you, the gentlemen and women of the press. It is also an opportunity for us to recommit ourselves to better service delivery and for you to continue your balanced and constructive coverage of our work in the years ahead.

“This forum reaffirms our commitment to integrity, operational excellence, public safety, and best practices under my leadership since assuming office in June 2024.

“Today, as we showcase our scorecard and mark the successful completion of one impactful year, we celebrate the collective achievements of the Taskforce, made possible by the unwavering support of everyone and the media. It is a moment for all of us to reflect, reset, and renew our joint commitment to a safer, cleaner Lagos.

“From the outset, my administration has maintained an open-door communication policy, fostering collaboration with stakeholders, the media, and the general public. This inclusive and transparent approach has helped us implement strategic thinking and establish an effective feedback mechanism to ensure alignment with global best practices.

“In just one year, we have redefined proactive enforcement and public engagement. Our tenure has seen:

•Significant improvements in traffic and environmental enforcement

•The removal of illegal structures/shanties and street trading

•Increased synergy with sister agencies

•Drastic reduction in motorcycle-related offenses, especially on restricted highways

•More intelligence-led and humane operations

“This progress would not have been possible without the tenacity, consistency, and support of you, the media professionals and our dedicated officers and staff. Your loyalty and encouragement have been instrumental in navigating both challenges and victories.”

He presented his score cards thus, “Our operational record for the past year demonstrates significant progress in enforcement and compliance efforts across the state, in alignment with the THEMES Plus agenda of the Lagos State Government.

Criminal suspects apprehended

•14,087 suspects were arrested across black spots such as Oshodi, Mushin, Iju Ishaga Railway, Lagos Island, Mainland, Ikoyi, Obalende, Marina, etc.

•After thorough screening, 1,287 suspects were released; 12,999 were arraigned resulting in a marked reduction in criminal activities in these areas.

Vehicle enforcement

•1,019 vehicles impounded from Victoria Island, Apapa, Ikeja, Agege Motor Road, and other key areas.

•Two vehicles were forfeited to the state through court orders.

Hawking and street trading

•418 hawkers and traders were arrested in areas like Ikeja, Obalende, Ikoyi, Eko Hotel Axis, and Ipaja. Goods were confiscated, leading to improved public safety and urban order.

Environmental sanitation

•1,786 shanties were demolished in areas including Ogombo, White Sand, Mile 2, Fagba, Epe, Oworonshoki, Agege ETC.

•These efforts have restored order and mitigated health and security risks in those communities.

Motorcycle operations

•16,625 motorcycles were impounded during the under review, a significant increase from 6,915 which were impounded in 2023 and early 2024.

•Key enforcement zones included 2nd Rainbow, Festac, Badagry Expressway, Lagos Island, Ikeja, Agege, Iyana Iba, Apapa, and Ipaja.

•This aligns with the state’s ongoing ban on commercial motorcycles on major highways and other restricted routes.

Clean up exercise

In continuation of the agency’s enforcement operation to rid the State of criminal elements, the Agency launched in April,2025 Clean up Enforcement operation at least twice a week during the wee hours of the day and embarked enforcement operation and arrest of miscreants, street urchins, hooligans, street traders, drug addicts and other suspected criminal elements in every nooks and crannies of the State. A total number of 2,276, out of which 222 were screened out and 2,154 were charged to court. Sanity was restored in all the areas to ensure safety and orderliness. A cleaner, safer Lagos for all. #CleanLagos #TaskforceInAction

Safety Arena relaxation spot

Safety Arena Relaxation Centre, first of its kind in any enforcement base in Nigeria, the nature of our work is highly demanding, both physically and mentally, and a well-equipped relaxation hub will greatly enhance staff welfare, morale, and for better preparation for tomorrow assignment

Improved health centre

Our upgraded Health Centre is now better equipped to serve officers and residents — because health and safety go hand in hand. #TaskforceCares #HealthFirst

Newly renovated reception

First impressions matter, we have revamped our reception area to provide a more professional, efficient, and welcoming experience. #ModernTaskforce #ServiceWithDignity

“To promote unity, wellness, and team spirit within the agency, the inaugural Table Tennis Cup has been introduced as an internal departmental competition. This landmark event aims to encourage camaraderie among officers while celebrating sportsmanship and physical fitness within the ranks of our staff, men and officers.

“As we celebrate one year in office, I reflect with pride and humility on the journey so far. The achievements recorded during this period would not have been possible without the tenacity, consistency, and loyalty of our officers, as well as the critical support of the media and the public.

“To our press partners, I express sincere gratitude for your continued coverage and encouragement through every phase of this administration. To our dedicated staff and officers, thank you for your commitment, discipline, and professionalism.

“This first year has been one of bold enforcement, community engagement, and results-driven service. The data and impact speak for themselves, reflecting our deep commitment to a safer, cleaner, and more secure Lagos.

I commend all Lagosians for their cooperation and urge continued support. Let us all play our part by obeying state laws and actively engaging the agency’s “See Something, Say Something” feedback mechanism to report illegal activities in our communities.

We remain resolute in our mission to build a better Lagos together.”