The Lagos State Taskforce has dismissed allegations of misconduct against its officials, insisting that no individual, including self-acclaimed human rights advocates, is above the law.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the agency refuted claims circulating online that it unlawfully impounded a 250cc motorcycle belonging to one Mr. Babatunde, described as a human rights advocate.
According to the Taskforce, the motorcycle was seized for violating traffic regulations, specifically for driving against traffic along the Cement Bus Stop–Ile Zik axis in Ikeja. The rider, identified by registration number DKA 510 QC, was also said to be carrying two passengers without helmets at the time of the arrest.
The agency stated that the rider resisted arrest and engaged officers in a physical struggle, during which some personnel had their uniforms torn before the situation was brought under control and the motorcycle taken to the Taskforce base.
It further alleged that the rider, alongside three others who identified themselves as human rights activists affiliated with the Nigeria Labour Congress, later approached the Officer-in-Charge of Ikeja, ASP Gamagins Kaffaru, offering a ₦20,000 bribe to secure the release of the motorcycle. The offer, it said, was rejected as the case had already been processed for prosecution.
The Taskforce also denied claims that its officials demanded ₦50,000, describing the allegation as false and misleading.
Reiterating its position, the agency stressed that identifying as a human rights advocate does not confer immunity from traffic laws or lawful enforcement, adding that offenders must be subjected to due legal process.
The Chairman of the Taskforce, Adetayo Akerele, was described as a legal practitioner and seasoned police officer committed to upholding human rights and the rule of law.
In a related development, the agency addressed a viral video involving one Segun Olawoye, clarifying that the individual accused in the footage was not a Taskforce operative but an impostor. It noted that the matter had been previously investigated and resolved after the suspect refunded the complainant.
The Taskforce urged the public to disregard what it termed false narratives aimed at undermining its operations, assuring that it would continue to enforce laws with professionalism and fairness.
