In strict adherence to the ban on motorcycle operations in designated areas, the Lagos State Government has taken a decisive step by crushing 1,500 apprehended motorcycles, commonly known as ‘okada’.
The ban, active in 10 Local Governments (LGs) and 15 Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) across Lagos, aims to reinforce the prohibition of okada operations within these regions.
Supervising the crushing exercise at the Taskforce yard in Alausa, Ikeja, the State Commissioner for Transportation, Mr Oluwaseun Osiyemi, emphasized the government’s unwavering stance on apprehending and impounding motorcycles violating the ban.
He underscored the government’s primary commitment to ensuring the safety and security of lives and property within the state.
Osiyemi reiterated the implications for those defying the ban, citing the Transport Reform Law (TSRL) 2018 stipulating a three-year imprisonment penalty for apprehended offenders.
He emphasized that thE regular crushing exercise serves as a stern warning to okada operators, riders, and passengers to steer clear of the restricted areas.
“The ban on Okada in specified regions is crucial for maintaining order, reducing risks associated with unauthorized motorcycle operation, and also improving security,” stated Osiyemi.
The restricted Local Government Areas encompass Kosofe, Oshodi-Isolo, Somolu, Mushin, Apapa, Ikeja, Lagos Island, Lagos Mainland, Surulere, and Eti-Osa, while the Local Council Development Areas under them also fall under the ban.
Commissioner Osiyemi urged compliance with the ban, highlighting the government’s belief that okada is an unsafe means of commercial transportation and does not align with the state’s transport policy.
During the exercise, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transportation, Mr. Olawale Musa, and other Ministry officials were present.
We can’t manufacture the engines of these machines, yet our government is very wasteful by crushing them. Instead of dismantling and giving it to our technical schools for recycling and production of farm tools for better agricultural productivity.