The Ekiti State Police Command has announced the commencement of a statewide traffic enforcement operation, code-named Operation Velvet, aimed at tackling reckless driving, traffic violations and other unsafe road practices across the state.

The exercise follows a directive from the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and is designed to improve road safety, reduce avoidable crashes and protect lives and property.

In a statement issued on Thursday, August 27, 2026, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Abutu Sunday, said the command would strictly enforce existing traffic laws and regulations during the operation.

The command warned all road users, including private and commercial motorists, tricycle operators and motorcycle riders, to comply with traffic rules throughout the exercise.

Ekiti Police Warn Against Reckless Driving

The police urged motorists and other road users to obey traffic signs and signals, adhere to stipulated speed limits and avoid reckless or dangerous driving.

They were also advised to ensure that their vehicle documents and operational permits are valid and up to date.

According to the command, the enforcement exercise is necessary to address increasing disregard for traffic regulations, which contributes to road crashes, traffic congestion and the endangerment of lives and property.

Police Officers Warned Against Extortion

The Commissioner of Police in Ekiti State, CP Falade Adegoroye Michael, directed officers deployed for Operation Velvet to carry out their responsibilities professionally, firmly and courteously.

The commissioner also warned police personnel against extortion, harassment, abuse of power and other forms of misconduct during the enforcement exercise.

The command said any officer found engaging in misconduct would face appropriate disciplinary action in line with the regulations of the Nigeria Police Force.

Operation Velvet Not Meant to Harass Road Users

The Ekiti Police Command stressed that Operation Velvet was not designed to harass or inconvenience law-abiding citizens.

Rather, the exercise is intended to restore sanity to the state’s roads, encourage responsible road usage and safeguard lives and property.

The command called on members of the public to cooperate with the police and other traffic management agencies by obeying traffic regulations and making road safety a collective responsibility.

The Ekiti Police Command urged motorists and other road users to take the enforcement exercise seriously and ensure full compliance with traffic laws to avoid sanctions.