The Lagos State Police Command has ordered 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 was issued by the Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, as part of efforts to streamline traffic management and reinforce professionalism, accountability, and clarity among enforcement agencies.
In a statement released in Ikeja, the Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Adebisi, said the decision takes immediate effect and applies to all traffic-related operations previously handled by the unit.
She explained that the withdrawal is limited strictly to traffic control and enforcement of traffic violations, noting that the Taskforce will continue to perform its other statutory duties.
Adebisi said the move is part of broader institutional adjustments aimed at ensuring that traffic management is handled by designated authorities, while improving coordination and reducing operational overlaps among agencies.
The Taskforce has long been active in traffic enforcement across Lagos, particularly at major intersections and high-traffic corridors, although its operations have also attracted criticism over enforcement methods and role duplication.
The police also cautioned residents against referring to all enforcement bodies as “Taskforce,” stressing that multiple agencies operate within the state under different mandates.
Members of the public were advised to verify the identity of officials before making complaints or allegations, especially in matters relating to traffic enforcement. The command reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order, stating that all operations in the state will continue to align with established laws and best practices.
