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Outrage as Okada Riders Return to Lagos Road Months After Ban — Residents Decry Rising Robbery and Accidents
Tension is rising across parts of Lagos Mainland as commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as Okada riders, have resurfaced on major roads in Oyingbo, months after the Lagos State Government outlawed their operations in several parts of the state.
Their return has sparked widespread outrage among residents, who say the once-bustling area is now grappling with a resurgence of Okada-related robberies and growing insecurity.
A video obtained by Lagos Reporters shows Okada riders moving freely along Oyingbo Road and adjoining streets, ferrying passengers in open defiance of the state’s ban. The disturbing development, residents say, reflects a breakdown in enforcement and growing impunity among commercial riders.
One resident, Mr. Tunde, told Lagos Reporters that the situation has become alarming.
“Okada riders are back everywhere. They now use the bikes to snatch phones and rob people going to work early in the morning. The police see them every day but do nothing,” he said.
Another resident, who pleaded anonymity, alleged that some police officers have turned the law into a source of daily income.
“The government has failed to enforce its own ban. Some policemen collect money from these riders and allow them to operate freely. That’s why they’re back on the roads,” he claimed.
The Lagos State Government had previously restricted Okada operations in several key areas including Surulere, Ikeja, Apapa, and Lagos Island following multiple security and safety concerns. But in recent months, enforcement across the Mainland, especially in Oyingbo and Ebute Metta, appears to have weakened drastically.
Commuters now report frequent cases of snatching, pickpocketing, and traffic robbery allegedly involving Okada operators, while residents accuse authorities of turning a blind eye.
Residents are calling on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police to act swiftly to restore order and security to the area.
“This is becoming unbearable. We voted for a government that will enforce laws, not one that tolerates lawlessness,” a trader near Oyingbo Market lamented.
As of press time, the state government had yet to issue an official statement on the growing violation of the Okada ban.