By Adesakin Adefemi
A former Lagos State Taskforce Commandant, ACP Yinka Egbeyemi, has shared his harrowing experiences while serving in the department, revealing the psychological, emotional, and physical trauma he endured.
Egbeyemi, who served in the Taskforce from March 2016 to December 2020, described the department as “not meant for the chicken-hearted.” He revealed that he was once falsely accused of leading a team that killed three people in Makoko, Lagos, and was summoned to the Governor’s office to explain himself.
The incident began when a video clip of the alleged killing was circulated on the internet, with a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) claiming that Egbeyemi and his team were responsible. He was shocked to discover that the video clip was sent to the Governor’s office by someone he trusted, asking for his removal from office.
Egbeyemi recounted the ordeal, saying he was initially confused and perplexed by the allegations. He even contacted the students who had given him an award just minutes before the summons, but they didn’t believe him, thinking he was being manipulative.
Despite his protests of innocence, Egbeyemi said many people believed the false accusations, including some bloggers and human rights groups. He noted that the saddest part was that no one apologized or retracted the false claims, even after the truth was revealed.
The investigation revealed that the perpetrators were actually from LAGESC and had borrowed their vehicle to commit the crime. Egbeyemi’s team was cleared, but the damage had already been done.
Egbeyemi’s experience highlights the challenges faced by Taskforce officers, who are often targeted by individuals and groups with vested interests. He advised officers to do their job diligently and leave the rest to God, saying “uneasy lies the head that wears the crown.”
The former officer also noted that people will always hate and lie about those who work to sanitize society, especially those who disrupt their illegitimate activities. He cited examples of okada riders, drivers who flout traffic rules, and illicit drug peddlers who will stop at nothing to undermine Taskforce efforts.
Egbeyemi’s story serves as a reminder of the importance of perseverance and integrity in the face of adversity, and the need for support and protection for officers who risk their lives to maintain law and order in Lagos.
