The Lagos State Taskforce has refuted allegations contained in a viral video circulating online, where a woman identified as Oneway, a resident of 6th Avenue, Ifanyi Close, Festac Town, claimed that her husband and others were unjustly arrested by Taskforce officers during a demolition exercise conducted by the Federal Housing Authority (FHA).
In a statement issued by Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, the Director of Public Affairs for the Agency, the Taskforce described the viral video as “misleading and deliberately distorted to incite public sympathy.”
According to Abdulraheem, contrary to the woman’s claims, the individuals in question were arrested for attacking Taskforce officials with stones and other dangerous objects while attempting to obstruct the lawful demolition of illegal structures that had encroached on FHA property.
“Her husband, who led the assault, mobilized others to prevent the continuation of the demolition exercise. Before resorting to violence, the group had earlier attempted to financially induce the demolition team to halt the operation,” Abdulraheem stated.
He added that when the bribery attempt failed, the suspects turned violent, pelting officers with stones, iron rods, and other objects. The Taskforce personnel, who were deployed to provide security support and maintain order, quickly contained the situation and restored normalcy to the area.
Quoting the Chairman of the Lagos State Taskforce, CSP Adetayo Akerele, Abdulraheem reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to law enforcement and warned against obstructing government officials performing their legitimate duties.
“Preventing law enforcement officers from carrying out their lawful assignments constitutes a serious offence under the law,” Akerele cautioned.“The Lagos State Taskforce will continue to ensure strict compliance, safeguard lives, and maintain public order during enforcement operations.
“While such activities may not always appear public-friendly, they remain essential for sustaining sanity and order across the State,” he added.
The agency further advised members of the public who feel aggrieved by the conduct of its officers to channel their complaints appropriately and provide credible evidence for investigation.
“Where wrongdoing is established, necessary disciplinary action will be taken in accordance with service regulations,” Abdulraheem assured.
He urged residents to disregard false narratives aimed at misinforming the public and stirring unnecessary sentiments, reiterating that the agency remains focused on its core mandate.
“The Lagos State Taskforce remains resolute in its mission to rid the State of lawlessness and criminality, while upholding professionalism and civility in all enforcement activities,” the statement concluded.
