On the first of February (1/02/2020), Lagos state imposed a ban on the operation of motorcycles and tricycles across 15 local government areas.
The ban, which was announced on January 27, was fully enforced on February 1, affecting the operation of motorcycles and tricycles in: Apapa, Lagos Mainland, Surulere, Eti Osa, Lagos Island, and Ikeja.
In view of this blockade, and in order to avoid risk, most riders are now operating in fear. Especially those who depend on transportation as a means of livelihood.
Motorcycle riders, being on the lookout, have diverted their axis, so as to avoid being harassed by Policemen. For instance, a common park for motorcycle riders at Ogba (Ifako-Ijaiye – LGA), has been abandoned, due to the closeness of a police station.
Though the ban is yet to be enforced in Ifako-Ijaiye LGA, motorcycle riders in Ogba, are tentative due to the presence of Area G Police Station.
The problem, begins with the deprivation of income for the riders, and by thus, mass exodus of motorcycle and tricycle riders from Lagos to Ogun state, which then would breed congestion, more competition among riders. Altogether, leading insufficient income.
For commuters in Lagos, transportation is about to witness a toll. Motorcycles and Tricycles happen to be the fastest means of getting across an area.
Without them, commuters are left with no other choice but trekking, and as trekking (aside its time-consuming nature) is going to be rampant (not to talk of in dry season), water consumption, as well as the purchase of soft drinks, would also increase, implying more environmental pollution (commuters would litter as they trek), and road congestion.
The Big Picture
These riders utilize their motorcycles to generate income. Banning them in such an inglorious manner, especially in the beginning of a year, would not just render them jobless but irate and frustrated. They would contrive whatever means possible to get funds.
African time, Stress, and Frustration would very well become the order of the day, as commuters trek long distances that would have been surmounted by motorcycles.
The alternative the government promised to roll out would be cars or buses, and this would definitely bring about more traffic, as motorcycles & tricycles take less space.
Irrespective, we observe the development and hope that situation does not overhaul our sights.
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