The Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Enforcement Unit (Taskforce) has reaffirmed that all individuals, including human rights advocates, are subject to traffic regulations, rejecting allegations of misconduct against its officers.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the agency’s spokesperson, Abdulraheem Gbadeyan, dismissed reports circulating online that taskforce officials unlawfully confiscated a 250cc motorcycle belonging to a human rights activist.
The reports had alleged that such motorcycles are permitted on Lagos roads and accused enforcement officers of extortion.
However, Gbadeyan maintained that no category of persons enjoys immunity from enforcement actions. He stressed that identifying as a human rights advocate does not exempt anyone from compliance with traffic laws.
According to the agency, the motorcycle was impounded after the rider committed several traffic violations in Ikeja, Lagos.
The spokesperson explained that the rider was caught driving against traffic along the Cement Bus Stop inward Ile Zik corridor. Additionally, the motorcycle, with registration number DKA 510 QC, was carrying two passengers without safety helmets.
He further stated that the situation escalated when the rider resisted arrest and allegedly engaged officers physically, resulting in a confrontation during which some officers’ uniforms were damaged.
“The situation was eventually brought under control, and the motorcycle was seized,” Gbadeyan said.
The taskforce revealed that the rider and three associates identified themselves as human rights activists linked to the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC).
Gbadeyan also alleged that the individuals later approached the officer in charge at Ikeja, ASP Gamagins Kaffaru, offering N20,000 in an attempt to secure the release of the seized motorcycle.
He said the offer was declined, noting that the matter had already been documented and forwarded for prosecution.
The agency denied claims of excessive force, emphasizing that all offenders are processed in accordance with established legal procedures.
Gbadeyan advised individuals with grievances to seek redress through the courts rather than spreading unverified claims on social media.
He also highlighted the leadership of the taskforce chairman, CSP Adetayo Akerele, describing him as a legal practitioner and experienced police officer committed to fairness, human rights, and the rule of law.
