Total Ban On Okada In Lagos Takes Effect In Two Months

 Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday revealed that the total ban on commercial motorcycles popularly called Okada will take effect in two months.

Speaking at the launch of 500 First and Last Mile Buses (FLM) meant to be deployed to inner roads in Lagos, Sanwo-Olu said this had become important because motorcycles are being used for criminal activities.

Sanwo-Olu also said Okada riders contribute to fatal accidents in the state.

The governor also warned those driving against traffic to desist as repeated offenders would not only lose their vehicle, they would contend with a three-year jail term, while first offenders will face a one-year jail term.

Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Lagos State Governor, has declared that the ban on commercial motorcycle and tricycle popularly called Okada and Keke Napep in the state would not be reversed.

Sanwo-Olu explained that the ban was due to security and safety reasons, hence it will not be reversed.

The Governor spoke yesterday while launching eight locally manufactured speed boats of the state ferry services, Lagferry, in Badore Ferry Terminal, Ajah.

“Let me tell you about the ban which we just enforced. We will sustain the ban on Okada and tricycles, mainly because of security and safety reasons.

“The security and safety of citizens are paramount to any government. As a responsible government, we will not fold our arms and allow any security breach in the state.

“We will continue to ensure the safety of our people on all fronts. There have been reports of serious security breaches and safety concerns in areas where these operators ply. We had to respond to these concerns because of life and safety matters to this government,” says the governor.

It had been reported that the State Government recently placed a ban on the operation of Okada and Keke Napep in some local government areas and local council development areas in the state.

The ban took effect from February 1 and was disclosed in a statement by the state’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotosho.