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 activities across the state.
The directive, issued by the Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, was announced on Tuesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Adebisi. According to the command, the move is aimed at improving efficiency, professionalism, and accountability in traffic management operations.
Police authorities clarified that the decision applies strictly to traffic-related duties, noting that the Taskforce will continue to carry out its other assigned responsibilities without interruption.
“This step is part of ongoing efforts to streamline traffic management operations and ensure clarity in the discharge of duties,” the statement said, emphasizing that the unit’s broader mandate remains intact.
The command also pointed out that the Taskforce is not the only agency operating in Lagos, urging residents and motorists to properly identify enforcement personnel before making complaints or allegations, particularly on traffic-related matters.
Reaffirming its commitment to maintaining law and order, the police encouraged the public to remain law-abiding and to cooperate with legitimate security agencies.
The development follows growing public criticism of Taskforce operatives over alleged misconduct. The backlash intensified after a viral video surfaced online, accusing some officials of extortion and unlawful arrest.
Police authorities have since launched an investigation into the incident, as concerns mount over the conduct of enforcement officers in the state.
