Lagos Police withdraws taskforce from traffic enforcement duties
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, issued by the Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, forms part of ongoing efforts to streamline Lagos’ often chaotic traffic management system and ensure that only designated agencies handle road-related enforcement.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said the decision was aimed at promoting professionalism, accountability, and operational clarity among enforcement agencies.
“The Lagos State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that the Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, psc, mnips, 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.
“This directive is part of ongoing efforts to streamline traffic management operations and ensure professionalism, accountability, and clarity in the discharge of duties. It is important to note that while the unit has been withdrawn from traffic-related responsibilities, all other assigned duties and operational mandates of the unit remain fully in force.”
Adebisi also cautioned residents against assuming that every officer branded “Taskforce” belongs to the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation and Special Offences Unit, noting that multiple taskforce bodies operate within the state.
“The Command also 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 or assertions,” she added.
The Command reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding lives and property while ensuring that all operations across the state are conducted in line with the law and best practices. It also urged residents to remain law-abiding and cooperate with all legitimate security agencies.
