New Lagos police commissioner vows to enforce Okada ban

Newly-appointed Commissioner of Police in Lagos, Mr Adegoke Fayoade, has assured that his tenure will focus on providing improved security for residents and indigenes in the state, especially during this Christmas and New Year celebrations.

This is also the police chief vowed to enforce the ban on operations of commercial motorcyclists, also known as Okada, from prohibited areas of the state, as he also pledged to intensify the fight against crime and road accidents.

Fayoade who gave the assurance, Thursday, during a press conference, in Lagos, after taking over as new CP in Lagos Command, said the command would work in synergy with other security agencies to secure all parts of the state.

“It is pertinent to note that the clampdown on commercial motorcycle operators in prohibited areas, which has led to drastic reduction of crime and accident cases will be sustained and intensified.

“Area Commanders and Divisional Police Officers will give daily updates on the level of compliance in their areas of responsibility. Other measures will be in place to ensure smooth, total and strict compliance,” the new CP stated.

Fayoade had taken over over from DCP Waheed Ayilara, who was the acting CP, after taking over from former CP, Mr Idowu Owohunwa, now in charge of Federal Criminal Investigation Department, Alagbon, Lagos, as Assistant Inspector-General of Police.

“Residents of Lagos should go about their normal business, they should enjoy their Christmas and New Year.

“We are going to provide watertight security that will protect lives and property. Our men will be visible at all areas, fun centres, our patrol will be very effective. Christmas and New Year will be crime free,” Fayoade said.

Fayoade pledged his dedication, commitment and resolve to the principles of justice and safety in the state, saying he would ensure the unalloyed commitment of both officers and men of the command to ensure security in the state.

“This will be achieved through practical, proactive policing, community engagement, strict and effective law enforcement strategies. I am determined to create a peaceful and crime-free environment in which all residents of Lagos can flourish.

“Our vision is to be a highly professional and trustworthy police force that serves as a beacon of excellence in maintaining law and order.

“We aim to build a strong partnership with community members, local organisations and law enforcement agencies to foster a safe and secure environment for all and sundry,” the new CP said.

On the issues of kidnapping, cultism, robbery and traffic robbery, Fayoade said a special focus would be on these crimes as they negatively impact the citizens and society.

He said a specialised unit, made up of well-trained and properly-equipped personnel, would be established to work closely with other law enforcement agencies to confront these crimes.

Fayoade, who commended journalists for their coverage of events, said they play a crucial role in a democratic society, stressing that the police would collaborate with them transparently for effective dissemination of information on crime, safety measures and public awareness campaigns initiated by the police.

“As the eyes and ears of the public, we shall welcome constructive criticism on our performance to strengthen our security architecture in the state.

“Police accessibility to the press and members of the public will be given prominence and more dedicated lines will be released for unhindered accessibility and feedback on issues of community safety and security.”