For being the predator to the mayhem that claimed many lives and properties in the state, Lagos State Governor Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode on Wednesday banned activities of commercials motorcycle operators popularly known as Okada from operating within Mile 12 and adjoining communities in Ikosi-Isheri Local Council Development Area.
Speaking at a joint press briefing as addressed by the leadership of the Mile 12 market, Maidan and Agiliti community at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre, Alhaji Shehu Usman, financial secretary of the market, said that they have decided to work with the state government in achieving its goals.
According to him, “we have resolved to ban the use of Okada as a means of commercial transportation in the area because of their flagrant disobedience to the 2012 road traffic law.
“Also, they cause road accidents in the area. For instance, they were responsible for the breakdown of law and order that predicated the present crisis in our community.
“Shanties and blighted areas within the communities that could harbour miscreants will be removed in order to eliminate illegal activities hoodlums from the community.”
Usman explained that the shanties were illegal structures and unsuitable for human habitation, adding that “these areas are prone to landslides and other environmental problems especially flooding. Their removal will greatly enhance the security of lives and property in the communities.”
“The market executives will dialogue further with the state government on the relocation programme which will hel p increase the economic growth and development, provide better infrastructure and reduce traffic congestion on the expanded Mile 12-Ikorodu road,” he added.
Meanwhile, the secretary to state government Mr. Tunji Bello warned that the state government will deal decisively with any group of persons that disturbs public peace in the state.
-Emmanuel Ikechukwu
