The Lagos State Police Command on Tuesday announced the immediate withdrawal of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation and Special Offences Unit, popularly known as the Taskforce, from all traffic control and enforcement duties across the state.
The directive, issued by Commissioner of Police Tijani Fatai, is part of a broader effort to streamline traffic management operations and enhance professionalism, accountability, and clarity in the responsibilities of security and enforcement agencies.
In a statement from Ikeja, Police Public Relations Officer Abimbola Adebisi said the decision takes immediate effect and applies to all traffic-related engagements previously handled by the unit.
The Taskforce has been visible over the years in enforcing traffic laws and addressing environmental and special offences, particularly at major intersections and congestion-prone areas in Lagos. However, its activities have sometimes drawn scrutiny, with concerns about operational overlaps and enforcement methods.
Adebisi clarified that the withdrawal is limited strictly to traffic control and contravention enforcement, and the unit will continue to carry out its other statutory duties without disruption.
The move is part of ongoing institutional adjustments to ensure traffic management is handled by designated authorities, while improving coordination and reducing friction among enforcement agencies.
The Command also advised residents against generalising all enforcement bodies as “Taskforce,” stressing that multiple agencies operate in Lagos under distinct mandates. Motorists and the public are urged to verify the identity of officials before lodging complaints, especially regarding traffic enforcement.
The police reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding lives and property, emphasizing that all operations in the state will continue to comply with established laws and best practices.
