Chaos in Idi-Araba as motorcyclists clash with police over Lagos okada ban

Commercial motorcyclists and police officers attached to the Lagos task force have clashed in Idi-Araba axis of the state.

TheCable learnt that some of the motorcyclists resisted police officers deployed in the area, on Tuesday, to enforce the state government ban on motorcycles.

The deployment of the police officers in the area angered the motorcyclists who were acting in a breach of the state government’s directive.

In a bid to resist the police officers, the motorcyclists reportedly set up bonfires using tyres — a development that caused apprehension among residents of the community.

The police officers also reportedly shot tear gas at the protesting motorcyclists in order to disperse the crowd.

The chaos started after the police officers impounded some motorcycles in the area.

Videos of the clash have appeared on social media as many netizens advise commuters to tread with caution while plying the route.

Reacting to the development, Benjamin Hundeyin, Lagos police spokesperson, in a statement, said some “lawless” motorcycle operators were trying to cause trouble after their motorcycles were impounded.

Hundeyin added that police officers have been drafted to the area and there is “absolutely nothing to worry about”.

“Idiaraba is safe. Nothing to worry about. Just some lawless motorcycle operators trying to cause trouble after their motorcycles were impounded,” the police spokesperson tweeted.

“Our men are fully on ground. CP Abiodun Alabi personally coordinating our response.”

Idiaraba is safe. Nothing to worry about. Just some lawless motorcycle operators trying to cause trouble after their motorcycles were impounded. Our men are fully on ground. CP Abiodun Alabi personally coordinating our response. https://t.co/DKn7TP8uWB

— SP Benjamin Hundeyin (@BenHundeyin) June 7, 2022

In May, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, governor of the state, announced a “total ban” on the operation of commercial motorcycles in six LGAs in the state.

The directive was to take effect from June 1.

Local government areas affected by the ban include Ikeja, Surulere, Eti Osa, Lagos Mainland, Lagos Island and Apapa.