Steer clear of restricted routes, Police tell Okada operators

The Lagos State Police Command has warned commercial motorcyclists, otherwise known as Okada operators to stay off restricted routes in the state as enforcement of the phase two ban on their operations in four additional local government areas and respective local government councils in the areas commences today.

Recall that the state’s Commissioner for Transportation, Frederic Oladeinde, announced the second phase of the ban during a press briefing, penultimate Thursday.

The additional LGAs are Kosofe, Oshodi-Isolo, Shomolu, and Mushin, while the affected LCDAs are Ikosi-Isheri, Agboyi-Ketu, Isolo, Ejigbo, Bariga and Odi-Olowo.

Mr Oladeinde explained that the decision was carried out to improve the peace and security of the residents.

On May 18, following several complaints over the growing menace and nuisance constituted by Okada riders, Governor Sanwo-Olu imposed a fresh ban on the operations in six local governments and nine LCDAs to curtail the unruly activities of the riders.

READ ALSO: Lagos extends Okada ban to more LCDAs

The combined team of security agencies, including the Army, traffic management agencies, paramilitary organizations with the police as the lead agency, went round the four LGAs, warning Okada riders to adhere strictly to the government restriction order or face the music. The security agencies later returned to Lagos State Police command, Ikeja, where they took proper briefings on operational order from Commissioner of Police Mr Abiodun Alabi.

Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) SP Benjamin Hundeyin,said, “as total enforcement on motorcycles commences in additional four LGAs tomorrow, September 1, 2022, Commissioner of Police, Lagos State Command, CP Abiodun Alabi, warns that violators of the ban will be promptly arrested and prosecuted. Law abiding citizens are enjoined to go about their lawful duties without fear of harassment or intimidation.

The CP has warned members of the public not to patronise Okada riders on the restricted areas as the Force would arrest any Okada rider and its passenger on the restricted. areas.