Okada ban begins in Lagos today, residents assured of safety

The Lagos State Government has assured residents that they should not be alarmed as the Okada ban in six local councils takes effect today.

Gbenga Omotoso, the commissioner for information and strategy, said today that law enforcement agencies went on a roadshow to reassure the public that the ban will be strictly enforced.

Following a meeting with the Commissioner of Police, Area Commanders, and Divisional Police Officers on May 18, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu announced the ban on May 18.

Surulere, Lagos Island, Lagos Mainland, Apapa, Eti-Osa, and Ikeja are the local governments affected.

According to Omotoso, the public’s concern about the implementation is unfounded.

“There is no need for any anxiety over the enforcement of the ban, which has been hailed by the majority of Lagosians as a reinforcement of the Lagos Traffic Law 2012 (amended in 2018)”, Omotoso said.

“The Government wishes to advise all law-abiding citizens to go about their businesses without any fear whatsoever as measures have been put in place to forestall any disturbance.

“Lagosians and visitors are urged to co-operate with the law enforcement agencies in our collective interest”.

The Lagos government views the activities of Okada as dangerous to road users.

The state’s Police Commissioner Abiodun Alabi, has described most Okada riders as criminals who must be taken off the road.

Omotosho, speaking to Channels Television, also noted that recent increases in accident rates have prompted the government to act again.

“Our doctors are complaining that more persons are coming in with okada emergency,” he said.

“About 45 percent of accidents in the first quarter were caused by okada. And most of the victims are between the ages of 30 to 39.”