LAGOS TASK FORCE CLAMPS DOWN ON ILLEGAL MOTOR PARK OPERATORS

… Impounds 84 Vehicles At Adeniji-Adele, Ikeja Illegal Motor Parks

The Lagos State Taskforce has carried out an enforcement exercise at Adeniji-Adele and adjoining routes to rid the axis of traffic gridlock and criminal activities caused by illegal operators of bus parks and bus stops along the axis.

The Chairman of the Agency, CSP Adetayo Akerele, who led the operation, stated that the activities of commercial motor operators along the route have been ongoing for too long, and it is high time to put a stop to it.

Akerele described the activities of commercial bus drivers (danfo) as worrisome due to long hours of traffic obstruction caused by their actions resulting in negative effects on motorists and commercial activities.

He said, “Motorists do not have to spend long travel time on this route due to the actions of a few. Occupying one or two lanes to create illegal bus parks is completely unacceptable and we are here to let these operators know that. If they want to pick up or drop off passengers, go to the designated bus parks”.

The Chairman further disclosed that the enforcement exercises will be continuous and vigorously carried out across the State, describing the planned actions as people-oriented, meant to ensure that Lagosians are not deprived of their right to proper utilisation of public amenities.

Similarly, the Lagos State Taskforce also carried out enforcement operations at Awolowo Way and Ipodo Street close to Ikeja Under Bridge where illegal Car Parks and Garages had been observed. 

He revealed that 84 vehicles were confiscated during both operations, assuring residents and commuters around that area that the days of commercial bus drivers dropping off and picking up passengers at unapproved locations would soon end.  

“Slow traffic movements are majorly caused by the activities of a few recalcitrant drivers. The obstruction being experienced during the rush hours results in spillovers extending to the Third Mainland Bridge and Kodesoh Street respectively, thereby making those areas impassable to motorists”, he said.

Operators of kiosks and makeshift stores on the kerbs and walkways on Adeniji-Adele were also not spared as the officials of the Agency cleared the structures erected on the walkway meant for pedestrians. Traders selling on the Street at Ipodo were warned to move their goods off the Road or risk having them confiscated by the Agency.