Dear Editor,

Sir, permit me a space in your widely read newspaper to air my view on the current ban on Okada operations in some parts of Ilorin metropolis. To start with, I have been watching with keen interest, the activities of the Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed-led administration in Kwara State since coming on board on May 29, 2011. Without bias, the present administration is trying its best to make life better for the people both at the urban centre and the rural community.

However, as an advocate of justice and fair play, one would have expected the state government to intensify efforts at sustaining the prevailing peaceful atmosphere in the state rather than place a ban on Okada operations in major routes in the metropolis. Yes, the government, with the support of the security operatives, is duty bound to protect the lives and properties of the citizenry, but certain factors have to be adequately considered in carrying out that responsibility.
One is not unaware of the dastardly acts being perpetrated by men of the underworld under the guise of commercial motorcycles business. But rather than come up with drastic measures to stamp out such acts, adequate security apparatus must be put in motion.
Putting it more bluntly, I do not think the current baa placed on Okada riders in the affected areas is a solution to the problem of crime.

In fact, I am of the opinion that such decision, when eventually enforced come August 3, is capable of doing more harm than good. The reason is not far-fetched from the fact that majority of the affected commercial motorcyclists depend largely on the business to take care of their families and even themselves. So, if they are forced out of business without any alternative means of livelihood, chances are they might seek unlawful means of survival.

Finally, I implore our dynamic and listening governor, to, as a matter of urgency, take another look at the new policy in the interest of peace and progress. Again, no efforts must be spared in dealing decisively with any motorcyclist without registration number, while Okada riders without concrete registration with any of the approved unions must be made to face the wrath of the law to edge out impostors.

culled from National Pilot Newspaper