August 18, 2025 — Lagos State authorities have impounded 668 commercial motorcycle riders, commonly known as Okada, within a single week after a spate of violent confrontations targeting government officials enforcing traffic and safety regulations.
The State Ministry of Transportation stated that the surge in impoundments coincided with clashes between some riders and enforcement teams across the metropolis. Reports indicate that tensions escalated when riders resisted compliance with operational guidelines, including restricted movement in designated high-traffic zones.
Impounded motorcycles are being held at government-designated facilities, with riders required to adhere to safety and regulatory protocols before retrieval. The state government stressed that the actions aim to ensure public safety, reduce traffic congestion, and curb illegal operations.
Officials also called on residents to report acts of aggression against enforcement personnel, pledging that law enforcement agencies would respond decisively to attacks on public officers. Observers note that the impoundments underscore ongoing friction between regulatory authorities and commercial motorcyclists, reflecting broader efforts to balance mobility with law, order, and safety in Lagos.