The Chairman of the Lagos State Environmental and Special Offences Unit (Taskforce), CSP Adetayo Akerele, has alleged that recent online attacks against him and the agency are the result of his refusal to grant undue favours to certain social media operators.
Akerele made the disclosure during a radio interview on Lagos Traffic Radio 96.1FM’s programme, Bosenlo, where he accused individuals identified as Sheriffdeen Ojon and Objectv of persistently lobbying for the release of impounded motorcycles, popularly known as okada, and other vehicles seized for traffic violations, particularly for driving against traffic.
According to the Taskforce Chairman, the individuals resorted to threats and smear campaigns after their requests were denied. He described the attacks as a coordinated effort to discredit both his office and the agency.
He further revealed that he possesses evidence, including screenshots of Facebook conversations, which allegedly show requests for preferential treatment and subsequent threats of blackmail when those requests were not granted.
“It is both sad and embarrassing that individuals who should be using their social media platforms to disseminate meaningful and enlightening information to the public have instead turned them into tools for blackmail, intimidation, and the spread of falsehoods and half-truths,” Akerele said.
Reiterating the provisions of the Lagos State Road Traffic Law (2018), Akerele emphasized that vehicles caught driving against traffic are liable to outright forfeiture to the Lagos State Government. He noted that strict enforcement of the law is essential to curb the menace of one-way driving, which he said has resulted in avoidable accidents, loss of lives, and lasting trauma for victims and their families.
He urged the public to be cautious of information disseminated through unverified platforms, describing such content as misleading and questionable in intent.
Akerele, however, reaffirmed his commitment to enforcing traffic laws without fear or favour, assuring residents that neither he nor the Taskforce would be intimidated or distracted from their mandate of maintaining order and ensuring safety on Lagos roads.
