'Ban Okadas from major streets' - residents tell state government

Residents of Lagos state are tired of the excesses of commercial motorcycle riders popularly called 'Okada riders'.

Mrs Odunayo Daniel, a resident, urged the government to restrict these Okada men to minor roads.

She was supported by Mrs Rose Onatega, a businesswoman, who said these riders are responsible for many criminal activities.

"Many crimes in Lagos are perpetrated with the use of Okada. They are used to rob; I was a victim along Ilasamaja area.

They do not obey traffic laws; most of them drive against traffic and they ply restricted routes at any time of the day," she said.

A retired teacher, Mr Augustine Igwe, shares the same views.

"Okada has done more harm to the safety of commuters than good and I think it should even be banned.

But government must make alternative provision for them to earn a living,” Igwe said.

While most called for their removal, a certain nurse disagrees.

According to Mrs Ronke Adesina, these Okadas should not be banned completely, but left to operate on certain streets.

"We don't need them on highways or major roads, but we need them in streets to assist commuters," she said.

What do you think?

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