16th September, 2010
In a bid to make the restriction order slammed on commercial motorcycle operators commonly called Okada riders more effective in some major roads listed by the Lagos State government, the Motorcycle Operators Association of Lagos State (MOALS), led by its state chairman, Mr. Tijani Pekis, recently apprehended over 30 recucitrant members for violating the order that restricted them from operating on major roads in the metropolis.
Speaking to newsmen, the chairman said members of the association were on the major roads with the sole aim of educating and sanitising the system during their operation.
According to him, all the apprehended okada riders who violated the restriction order included dismissed uniform men, dispatch riders and private operators without safety devices. Most of the offenders complained that they had no means of livelihood except the motorcycles.
The chairman of MOALS advised them to always comply with the state’s directives on the restriction order, adding that the state government did not ban the operators, but only restricted their operations from major roads so as to reduce accidents.
He warned them to keep away from no-go areas and ply the approved routes in order to sustain their livelihood and their families.
Meanwhile, Mr. Pekis has commended the administration of Governor Raji Fashola for his development efforts in the state.