Lagos Enforces Ban On Okada Business

Lagos, one of the most populous cities in Africa, is also enforcing ban on motorcycle taxis. Nigeria’s economic powerhouse announced the ban two weeks ago and that covers major districts in the city. The clampdown follows the gruesome murder of a 38 year old man, suspected to have been killed by some taxi riders during disagreement

over a fare. The incident sparked public outrage and the authorities said they will arrest riders who flout the ban and seize their motorbikes. The Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu described the taxi riders as a threat to road users, citing surging crime and road accidents. The taxis are a preferred means of transport because are faster in

weaving through the city’s traffic jams. A large number of young people in the state make a living as motobike taxi riders and the ban is also bound to face a backlash. The authorities on the Tuesday deployed security personnel and armoured personnel carriers in the city amid fears of possible violent protests.