The Lagos State Police Command has briefed the general public on the circumstances surrounding the incident at the Ikorodu axis, which resulted in a viral video alleging that the operatives of the Lagos State Taskforce were driving a vehicle against traffic.
At a press briefing Monday, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, AIG Olohundare Jimoh, said, “At about 6:30 am on Friday, March 13, 2026, officers of the Taskforce were on routine traffic enforcement patrol, inbound Mile 12, when a vehicle was intercepted by operatives of the Safer Highway Patrol and Protection after the driver made a wrongful turning, as this is a violation of traffic regulations. In an attempt to evade arrest, the driver reversed his vehicle and rammed into an oncoming commercial mini-bus, thereby damaging the mini-bus and endangering other road users.
“The Safer Highway Patrol Team subsequently handed over the driver and the vehicle to Taskforce officers for further action. During the enforcement, the suspect allegedly resisted arrest and obstructed traffic, causing a temporary gridlock along the corridor. Other components of personnel attached to the Taskforce applied minimal and necessary force to remove him from the roadway and restore normal traffic flow. The damaged mini-bus was towed to the Taskforce Office in Oshodi, while the offender’s vehicle was taken to Alausa for further investigation and custody.
“Preliminary investigation further indicated that the suspect instigated bystanders, leading to a brief mob action against Taskforce Policemen during which stones were thrown at the officers. The viral video currently circulating online was recorded by the suspect while his vehicle was being conveyed to Alausa, and does not capture the full context of the incident. The suspect, Lateef Adeyemo ‘m’, was taken before a mobile court in Oshodi, where he was charged with four (4) counts, namely: Conduct likely to cause breach of the peace; Driving in a direction prohibited by the Law of Lagos State; Obstruction of public officers in the discharge of their official duties; and Malicious damage. He was remanded to prison custody because he could not fulfil the bail conditions.
“Part III, Schedule 1, Item 27 of the Lagos State Road Traffic Law and Regulations 2018 prohibits driving in a direction or neglecting lawful traffic directions, an offence punishable upon conviction with one year imprisonment and forfeiture of the vehicle to the State Government.
“The Command urges motorists to obey traffic regulations and cooperate with law enforcement officers. The public is also advised to refrain from circulating misleading narratives capable of causing public misunderstanding.
“The Command reiterates that no one is above the law. Anyone who violates the law or challenges lawful authority will face the full consequences, as the Police will not be cowed by blackmail or intimidation in the discharge of their duties.
“Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA):* Responsible for the regulation and
enforcement of activities on the BRT corridors across Lagos State.
“Lagos State Task Force:* Mandated to enforce traffic laws and regulations across the State.
*Rapid Response Squad (RRS):* Handles rapid
response to emergencies and conducts visibility patrols to enhance public safety.
*Eko Strike Force:* Responsible for crisis intervention, tactical response, and de-escalation of volatile situations within Lagos State. The Lagos State Police Command remains committed to enforcing the law professionally and ensuring safety on Lagos roads.”
