By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
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, issued on Tuesday, 31 March, 2026 by the Commissioner of Police, Tijani Fatai, was conveyed in a statement by the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abimbola Adebisi, who said the move forms part of ongoing efforts to streamline traffic management and restore order to Lagos’ often chaotic road operations.
Accordingly, the command said the decision is aimed at promoting professionalism, accountability and clarity, while ensuring that only designated agencies handle traffic-related enforcement.
“The Lagos State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that the Commissioner of Police, CP Tijani Fatai, has directed the immediate and complete withdrawal of the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation and Special Offences Unit (Taskforce) from traffic control and traffic contravention enforcement across the State,” the statement said.
However, the command clarified that the Taskforce would continue to perform its other statutory responsibilities without interruption.
“This directive is part of ongoing efforts to streamline traffic management operations and ensure professionalism, accountability and clarity in the discharge of duties. It is important to note that while the unit has been withdrawn from traffic-related responsibilities, all other assigned duties and operational mandates of the unit remain fully in force,” Adebisi added.
Meanwhile, the police cautioned residents against assuming that every officer identified as “Taskforce” belongs to the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation and Special Offences Unit, noting that multiple taskforce bodies operate within the state.
“The Command also wishes to enlighten members of the public that the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation and Special Offences Unit is not the only Taskforce operating within Lagos State. Residents and motorists are therefore strongly advised to always verify the identity of personnel and agencies before making allegations or assertions, particularly in matters relating to traffic enforcement,” the statement noted.
Furthermore, the command reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, stressing that all operations in the state would continue to align with established laws and best practices.
“The Lagos State Police Command remains committed to safeguarding lives and property while ensuring that all operations within the State are carried out in accordance with the law and best practices,” the statement added, urging residents to remain law-abiding and cooperate with legitimate security agencies.
