The Lagos State Taskforce has dismissed as false a viral video report alleging that its officials were involved in collecting bribes from a motorist, describing the claim as misleading and unverified.
In a statement issued by the agency’s Director of Public Affairs, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, the Taskforce accused Objectv reporter, Segun Adewoye, of publishing inaccurate information without proper verification.
The agency stated that the individual captured in the viral video was not a Taskforce official, noting that a proper assessment would have revealed clear differences between a conventional police officer and Taskforce personnel.
According to the statement, the reporter’s approach to the story lacked professionalism and analytical scrutiny, leading to the dissemination of misinformation capable of misleading the public.
The Taskforce further highlighted what it described as a pattern of inaccurate reporting by Adewoye, recalling a previous incident where he allegedly misidentified Taskforce officials as members of the LAMATA BRT Monitoring and Enforcement Unit.
Clarifying its position, the agency explained that although police personnel are part of its operations, its officials maintain a distinct uniform. It noted that Taskforce officers are dressed in black-on-denim attire with clearly marked jackets bearing the inscription “Taskforce,” along with serial numbers and a unique insignia.
The agency stressed that none of these identifying features were present in the viral video, adding that the individual shown was dressed in an all-black outfit inconsistent with Taskforce uniforms.
Describing the allegation as reckless and unjustifiable, the Taskforce warned against attempts to tarnish its reputation, insisting it remains committed to upholding law and order across the state.
The statement also raised concerns about Objectv’s reporting style, alleging a lack of proper investigation and suggesting that repeated criticisms of the agency may be linked to its refusal to grant waivers to traffic law violators.
Reaffirming its mandate under the Lagos State Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018, the Taskforce said it would continue to enforce traffic regulations without fear or favour.
The agency, however, urged members of the public to disregard the viral video linking it to the alleged misconduct.
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