The Lagos State Taskforce has dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that its officers stopped a truck driver and demanded a permit for the inscription of “TRD” on the vehicle.
The agency described the allegation as inaccurate, maintaining that the issuance or enforcement of permits relating to inscriptions on vehicles is not part of its mandate.
In a statement signed by its Director of Public Affairs, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, the Taskforce said its personnel had no reason to stop or accost the driver over the inscription.
The agency also reiterated that its officers are no longer authorised to carry out traffic-related enforcement in the state, following a directive by the Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, suspending such activities.
It said its personnel had consequently stopped making arrests or enforcing traffic offences and were not permitted to stop motorists for traffic violations.
The Taskforce urged residents to be cautious when identifying uniformed personnel involved in incidents, stressing that wearing camouflage or a similar uniform does not automatically mean that the individual is attached to the agency.
According to the statement, Lagos State has several security and law enforcement agencies operating with different responsibilities and uniforms, making proper identification necessary before attributing an incident to a particular agency.
The agency said under the leadership of its Chairman, CSP Adetayo Akerele, it remained committed to carrying out its statutory responsibilities in a professional and lawful manner.
It added that its operatives had been directed to remain within the limits of their mandate while respecting the rights of members of the public.
The Taskforce further called on social media users to verify information before publishing allegations, warning that unverified claims could mislead the public and damage the reputation of government institutions.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Lagos State Taskforce did not demand any permit from the said driver for the inscription of ‘TRD’ on his truck and has no operational mandate to do so,” the agency stated.
It urged anyone with a genuine complaint involving suspected Taskforce personnel to use the appropriate reporting channels to enable the agency investigate and establish the facts.
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