The Lagos State Government is grappling with a surge in the activities of commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as Okada riders, who continue to operate on highways and bridges despite a partial ban. Officials are now debating whether to enforce a total statewide prohibition to address the persistent violations.
Speaking at a media engagement forum in Ikeja on Friday, the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, expressed concerns over the recurring presence of Okada riders in restricted areas.
“The government keeps taking them off the road, and you wonder where the new ones are coming from,” Omotoso lamented. He described the situation as “a very controversial matter,” raising the question of whether a total ban across the state would provide a definitive solution.
A Problem That Won’t Go Away
In 2022, Lagos State banned Okada operations on major highways, bridges, and in six local government areas, including Ikeja, Surulere, and Lagos Island. This move aimed to curb accidents, reduce criminal activities, and ease traffic congestion. However, enforcement challenges persist as many riders return to prohibited zones, often risking their lives and those of others.
Omotoso highlighted how some Okada riders flagrantly disregard the law, operating on highways such as Mile 2 and Eko Bridge, and even riding against traffic. “You still find Okada riders on the bridges, riding against traffic, even on Eko Bridge. The more you take them off the street, the more they come back,” he said.
He linked this persistent issue to Lagos being “a victim of its own success,” suggesting that the city’s economic opportunities and bustling population make it an attractive destination for commercial motorcyclists.
Human Rights and Public Safety at Odds
Efforts to enforce the ban have been met with resistance from some human rights organizations, who argue that Okada riders have a right to earn a livelihood. Omotoso criticized this perspective, stating, “Unfortunately, some human rights organisations feel that Okada is a human rights symbol and should be allowed to move freely in the state. I think this is not responsible for us.”
For years, Okadas have been a contentious issue in Lagos. While they offer a quick and affordable mode of transport, they are also associated with safety risks and lawlessness. Data from the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) shows that Okadas were involved in over 600 traffic accidents in 2021, many of which resulted in fatalities.
Public Opinion Sought
To address the growing crisis, the state government is seeking input from residents and stakeholders. “Should Okada be totally banned everywhere in Lagos, or should we stick to this gradual withdrawal?” Omotoso asked journalists at the forum, urging them to gauge public sentiment through their platforms.
Advocates of a total ban argue that it would simplify enforcement and eliminate grey areas that currently allow riders to exploit legal loopholes. Omotoso reinforced this point, stating, “Once there is a total ban, the excuse of riding where it was not banned will be out of it.”
However, critics warn that such a move could have severe economic implications. Many Lagosians rely on Okadas for their daily commute, especially in areas with poor road networks or limited access to public transportation. A total ban could also displace thousands of riders, many of whom migrated to Lagos in search of better opportunities.
The Bigger Picture
The Okada issue highlights broader challenges in Lagos State, including urban planning, transportation infrastructure, and population management. Lagos, home to over 20 million people, is one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. This rapid urbanization has put immense pressure on its road networks and public transport systems.
The state government has made efforts to expand alternatives, such as the Lagos Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and recent investments in rail projects. Still, these initiatives have yet to meet the demands of the city’s growing population.
Urban planning experts argue that a total Okada ban must be accompanied by significant improvements in public transportation. “Without viable alternatives, banning Okadas will only worsen mobility challenges for many Lagosians,” said a transportation analyst.
What’s Next?
The Lagos State Government has not announced a definitive timeline for deciding on the proposed total ban. In the meantime, the Task Force continues to seize motorcycles operating in banned areas, a measure that has had limited success in curbing the problem.
As the debate rages on, many Lagosians remain divided on the issue. While some view Okadas as a nuisance and a safety hazard, others see them as an essential part of daily life in Nigeria’s commercial capital.
For now, the government appears committed to finding a long-term solution that balances public safety with the economic realities of its citizens. Whether that solution involves a total ban or improved regulation remains to be seen.
