CP Tijani Fatai. Credit: X | LagosPoliceNG
• To promote professionalism, accountability, and clarity.
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 traffic contravention enforcement duties across the state.
The directive, issued by the Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, is part of ongoing efforts to tidy up Lagos’ often-chaotic traffic management structure and ensure that only the appropriate agencies handle road-related enforcement.
In a statement on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, said the move was aimed at promoting professionalism, accountability, and clarity among security and enforcement operatives. He stressed that although the Taskforce had been pulled out of traffic operations, it would continue all other statutory functions without interruption.
The statement said, “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.
“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 It is important to note that while the unit has been withdrawn from traffic-related responsibilities, all other assigned duties and operational mandates of the unit remain fully in force.”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. He urged motorists to verify the identity of enforcement personnel before making allegations, noting that several 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, particularly in matters relating to traffic enforcement.
“The Lagos State Police Command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property while ensuring that all operations within the State are carried out in accordance with the law and best practices. Members of the public are encouraged to remain law-abiding and cooperate with all legitimate security agencies.”
