Lagos Says No Going Back On Okada Ban As Riot Breaks In Iyana Ipaja
Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has said that he will not drop the ongoing enforcement of its Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018, which bans the operations of commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada and tricycles (Keke NAPEP) in 15 local councils across the State.
The disclosure was made in a statement on Wednesday; signed by Gboyega Akosile, Chief Press Secretary to the Lagos governor.
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Meanwhile the ban has continued to generate reactions among operators in the state.
There was a protest in Iyana Ipaja area of Lagos State on Wednesday over the ban imposed on motorcycle (Okada) and tricycle (Keke) operators in the state, according to Punch online.
The website also monitored a video, in which people were seen running during the protest.
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But Sanwo-Olu, while speaking at the official launch of commercial operations in water transportation by Lagos Ferry Services (LAGFERRY), said “the state Government would not give in to blackmail and uninformed criticism of its decision to restrict Okada and Keke NAPEP on the highways, saying the enforcement became necessary in the face of growing threats to security of lives of residents.”
“As a responsible Government, we will not fold our arms and allow Okada riders put our lives in danger. One life is more important to us than all the economic benefits to be made if we allowed them to continue. We understand that investment too can be critical, but keeping people alive and safe is more germane,” the statement said.
He also said that over 500 buses would be made available to cushion the effect of the ban and and ease movements in the state.
