Lagos state government begins enforcement of okada restriction in 475 roads

Lagos—Lagos State government, yesterday, commenced enforcement of the law against operators of commercial motorcycles popularly called “Okada” riders, who violate the restriction order from plying 475 roads as stipulated in 2012 Lagos Road Traffic Law.

This followed the expiration of a 21-day grace granted by the state government late in June which elapsed last Thursday. But the government delayed the enforcement to allow the commercial motorcyclists’ union a period to sensitize their members on the order.

The enforcement started in the early hours of yesterday, by men of the State Taskforce on Environment and Special Offences unit. It was gathered that 75 motorcycles were impounded immediately, forcing many to withdraw from the roads.

Confirming the commencement of the enforcement, Chairman of the Taskforce, Akeem Adedeji, said that his men began to implement the state government’s order, “to restore sanity to the roads.” According to Adedeji, “This morning alone, (yesterday), we impounded no fewer than 75 motorcycles. But you’ll find that as we impound, they buy new ones to replace the seized ones.

That is how resilient they are. One cannot but wonder where they get the money and the number plates from,” he said. The Chairman added that his men remain resolute to clear the roads of okada menace, adding that it might take about three months before sanity is finaly restored. What is however, different from the past administration is the manner of the arrest. Adedeji said the taskforce will be carrying out the enforcement mildly in line with the rule of law.

He explained that the enforcement was in compliance with the state governor’s directive on implementation of the traffic rules “taking into consideration their (motorcyclists) human rights, dignity and respect.” Earlier, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Tunji Bello, said the measure became necessary following the return of okada riders going back to their old ways and the need to enforce the traffic rules.

According to Bello: “Some of them now even drive against the traffic, (one-way) on Oshodi-Apapa Expressway. When you go to Apapa, Lagos-Badagry Expressway, Gbagada, and others, you will see them. We have to call them to order.”