The Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Wednesday has again banned the operation of commercial motorcycles popularly called okada, in six local government areas of the state.
The six local governments include Ikeja, Surulere, Eti-Osa, Lagos Mainland, Lagos Island, and Apapa.
This comes days after okada riders allegedly attacked and killed a sound engineer with Legacy Band, Sunday David Imoh, over an argument on N100 fare.
Speaking with all Divisional Police Officers in the state at the Lagos House, Ikeja, Sanwo-Olu urged the officers to ensure total enforcement of the ban.
The governor told them: “After a critical review of our restriction on Okada activities in the first six Local Government Areas where we restricted them on February 1, 2020, we have seen that the menace has not abated.
“We are now directing a total ban on Okada activities across the highways and bridges within these six local governments and their Local Council Development Areas, effective from June 1, 2022.
“The whole of Ikeja, Surulere, Etiosa, Lagos Island, Mainland and Apapa local governments; a total ban.
“It will take effect from June 1. This is a phased banning we are embarking on. So others should know whether to get out or look for something else to do.
“Begin your strategy. From the June 1, we want all okada to be completely off these areas.”
However, this is not the first time Lagos State is announcing a ban on Okada operators.
In February 2020, the governor directed security personnel to clamp down on Okada riders but the directive was not well implemented as they returned to the streets.
