The Executive Chairman of Sagamu Local Government, Ogbeni Jubril Olasile Odulate, has firmly distanced his administration from an alleged task force reportedly collecting ticket fees from commercial drivers within the area, describing the operation as незакон and unauthorized.
In an official statement released on Tuesday, the Chairman said his office had been alerted to a viral video and accompanying social media posts claiming that a local government-backed task force had been deployed to enforce payment of ticket levies by drivers. He categorically denied issuing any such directive.
“I wish to state clearly that I did not authorize any such task force, and no directive was given by the Local Government for the collection of ticket money from drivers,” the statement read.
Odulate stressed that any individuals or groups presenting themselves as representatives of the local government for the purpose of collecting such fees are acting outside the law and without government approval. He warned that such activities constitute a serious breach of public trust and order.
The Chairman further advised commercial drivers and members of the public to resist any demands for payment from these unauthorized agents. He urged vigilance and cooperation in curbing the illegal activity.
“I strongly advise members of the public, especially commercial drivers, not to comply with such demands. Anyone found engaging in this act should be apprehended and handed over to the appropriate authorities, while my office should be promptly notified,” he added.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to transparency and accountability, Odulate assured residents that efforts are underway to identify and bring the perpetrators to justice. He emphasized that protecting citizens from exploitation remains a top priority for his government.
The statement has since sparked reactions among residents and transport operators, many of whom have expressed concern over the increasing incidence of unauthorized revenue collection in the area. Stakeholders are now calling for swift enforcement actions to deter future occurrences.
As investigations continue, authorities have encouraged the public to report any suspicious activities linked to the illegal task force, reinforcing the message that only duly authorized channels are permitted to operate within the local government framework.
