Lagos State government says it is releasing not less than 65 new buses on major routes across the state to cushion the harsh effect of the ban on the operations of motorcycles (Okada) and tricycles (Keke).
The state government last week announced a ban on the operations of Okada and Keke, citing insecurity, crimes and loss of lives and property in accidents involving these two means of transportation.
The commissioner for information and strategy, Gbenga Omotosho, said on Sunday night that the government was not unaware of the difficulty that the ban on Okada and Keke may throw up.
And as a result, the government is taking steps to cushion the effect.
“A fleet of 65 buses will join the others on some major routes as from Monday , February 3, 2020: No less than 550 more buses are being expected. Besides, 14 ferries will be commissioned on Tuesday.
This will further open up the waterways, reduce travel time on various routes and provide safe, dependable and comfortable alternatives for commuter,” said Omotosho.
He praised motorcycle and tricycle operators for complying with the restriction from six local government areas, major highways and bridges.
The enforcement of the ban came into effect on Saturday, February 1, 2020.
“The level of compliance was over 90 percent . In fact, some of the ride hailing companies directed their riders to obey the directive.
This is commendable. The high level of compliance has shown that Lagosians agree with the government on the need to stop the danger that commercial motorcycles and tricycles have become – a big threat to safety of lives and security of our people. They should stand firm in supporting the government,” said Omotosho.
He added that “the little discomfort experienced by commuters on some routes due to the absence of motorcycles and tricycles is noted. This will not last as alternatives are being rolled out.
The government warned all those who are planning to unleash violence on the state because of the ongoing enforcement to have a change of heart.
“Lagosians are peace loving and law abiding people, who will not embrace any disruption of their legal activities by failed politicians hiding under the evil of unwholesome activism. The law enforcement agents have been directed to ensure that nobody,” he said.
