By Peace Udugba
Despite the Lagos State Government’s ban on commercial motorcycles (Okada) on major roads and across 10 Local Government Areas and six Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs), operators have continued to ply prohibited routes with apparent impunity.
Investigations revealed that among those flouting the restriction are some security personnel who are expected to enforce the law rather than violate it.
A visit to the Toll Gate axis, which serves as the boundary between Lagos and Ogun states, showed individuals wearing police face caps, Mobile Police T-shirts and military camouflage operating commercial motorcycles. The use of the security attire appeared to discourage law enforcement officers from questioning or arresting them while carrying out the illegal operation.
The investigation further revealed that the operators charge as much as N2,500 per passenger for trips from Toll Gate to the Ikeja area, while fares to Oshodi are even higher. Most of the riders carry two passengers per trip, enabling them to earn about N5,000 from a single journey.
The continued operation of commercial motorcycles on restricted routes has raised concerns over the enforcement of the state’s ban, especially as those allegedly involved include security personnel entrusted with maintaining law and order.
The Lagos State Government has repeatedly warned that anyone found violating the Okada restriction would face arrest and prosecution as part of efforts to improve road safety and security across the state.
