BENJAMIN OMOIKE
The Lagos State Government has begun the enforcement of the ban on commercial motorcycles, also known as okada, in six Local Government Areas and nine Local Council Development Areas (LG/LCDAs).
Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, confirmed the enforcement on a Television Continental (TVC) Programme, “Your View”, reiterating that the ban was taken to ensure security and safety of Lagosians. He urged Lagosians to use alternative means of transportation provided by the government.
Omotoso said: “During the first quarter of this year, the record shows that over 1,712 accidents were recorded, with okada constituting 767 or 45 percent of them. Of all the victims, 54 percent are between 30 and 39 years old; our young people.”
He reiterated that during the meeting with DPOs, Area Commanders and the Commissioner of Police, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu handed down the explicit instruction of ensuring effective enforcement of the ban.
Giving details about plans for an effective clampdown on okada, the Commissioner said: “I want to assure Lagosians that the security agents will do the right thing when enforcing the ban and carry out the exercise in a professional manner because the ban is people-driven. The local governments are involved; community development associations are involved; everyone is involved in taking back our state from the tyranny of okada.”
On alternatives to okada, the Commissioner said the State Government launched over 500 First and Last Mile buses. He said 200 have been rolled out in the last week to serve as an alternative to okada.
Omotoso said: “The State Government is doing a lot in transportation, which is the first pillar of the administration’s T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda. Fifteen jetties are under construction and some of them are at 90 percent completion stage. Some in areas like Apapa, Liverpool, Ijede, Ilashe, Ajido, Ebute-Ero, Mile Two and others are being completed. In the last three years, LAGFERRY has been operating with no single record of accident; so, Lagosians are encouraged to use these alternatives to ensure the safety of all.”
He was sure that by the end of this year, the Red and Blue rail lines will be completed and commercial activities will begin first quarter of next year to complement road and water transportation.
“The Lagos Traffic Law of 2012, reviewed in 2018, says that okada and tricycle must not be found on major highways, major roads and bridges in any part of Lagos; so no one should feign ignorance,” Omotoso said.
