•Impounds 108 tricycles, mini buses
In a move to restore free vehicular movement, maintain order, and ensure compliance with Lagos State traffic laws, the Lagos State Taskforce has carried out an enforcement operation at Jakande Gate along Ikotun-Isolo Road, Command Road, Omi Ata, and Ekoro Road in the Abule Egba area.
The Taskforce Director, Press & Public Affairs, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, said in a statement that the operation was targeted at drivers of commercial mini buses (popularly known as Korope), tricycles (Keke Marwa), and roadside traders who had turned the highways into illegal bus stops, motor parks, parking lots, and hubs for trading, including the sale of local gin and unprocessed liquor (Paraga).
These activities, the spokesman disclosed, had been causing severe traffic congestion which was affecting both motorists and pedestrians.
Led by the Chairman of the agency, CSP Adetayo Akerele, the operation commenced at Ejigbo area and extended to Command Road, Omi Ata, Ile Iwe Bus Stop, and Ekoro Road.
It also addressed longstanding complaints about road obstructions, illegal parking on kerbs and walkways, as well as traffic bottlenecks, particularly around the Alimosho axis.
Thenewsbearer learnt that the enforcement exercise was initiated in response to public feedback received through the Agency’s Surveillance and Monitoring for Compliance Mechanism.
The successful clearance of these areas has significantly improved traffic flow, bringing relief to residents and commuters.
Many noted that roads previously impassable from 5:30a.m. to 4:30p.m. are now free for vehicular movement and pedestrians.
A motorist, Mr. Tayo Ajenifuja, shared his experience: “This is a new lease of life for us. The constant gridlock caused by these Korope and Keke drivers, along with illegally parked vehicles on walkways, is finally gone. We can now move freely without hindrance.”
The Taskforce chairman made it known that the operation would be extended to other affected areas across the state as part of efforts to sustain order and improve traffic conditions.
He urged commercial drivers and motorists to comply with Lagos State Traffic Laws, warning that violators would face legal consequences.
“No fewer than 108 tricycles and mini buses were impounded during the raid, and all will be charged to court accordingly,” CSP Akerele concluded.