The Lagos State Police Command has defended officers of its Rapid Response Squad (RRS) who were captured driving against traffic in a viral video, explaining that they were responding to distress calls from motorists trapped in a gridlock.
The Command clarified the incident in a statement on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, following public criticism of the RRS patrol vehicle identified as ‘RRS Attack 07’.
According to the police, the patrol team, led by an Inspector, was dispatched by the Command’s Control Room after receiving complaints from motorists who were stuck in heavy traffic and requested police intervention.
The Command explained that the officers were the closest available police formation and had to drive through the opposite lane to reach the source of the obstruction and restore traffic movement.
It added that the decision was necessary to prevent the gridlock from spreading to adjoining roads, disrupting economic activities and blocking access routes for emergency services.
Defending the action, the police cited Regulation 158 of the National Road Traffic Regulations, 2012, which permits law enforcement officers responding to emergencies or performing civil protection duties to disregard certain traffic signs, provided they exercise due care for other road users.
The Command maintained that the officers’ action was a deliberate operational decision taken in the interest of public safety rather than an arbitrary violation of traffic regulations.
However, the police condemned the alleged harassment and confrontation involving some individuals who reportedly obstructed the officers while they were carrying out their duties.
Related News:
Footballer Dies in Lagos-Ibadan Expressway Crash Involving Trailer, Bus
Amnesty International: Lagos Demolitions Displaced 50,000 Residents, Left 42 Dead
Police Rescue Three Girls From Suspected Human Traffickers in Lagos
It also accused the individuals of deliberately blocking the road and preventing other motorists from accessing it, describing such conduct as an infringement on the rights of other road users.
The Command further referenced Section 98 of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, which addresses the obstruction of police officers performing their lawful duties.
It also accused the individuals of deliberately blocking the road and preventing other motorists from accessing it, describing such conduct as an infringement on the rights of other road users.
The Command further referenced Section 98 of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, which addresses the obstruction of police officers performing their lawful duties.
While acknowledging the public’s right to question police conduct and demand accountability, the Command warned against intimidation, harassment and deliberate obstruction of officers on lawful assignments.
It reiterated its commitment to protecting citizens’ rights and urged residents to cooperate with security personnel, while assuring the public that genuine complaints and constructive criticism would remain welcome.
About the Author
