Many residents of Sapele have expressed outrage over a new policy by the Sapele Local Government Council restricting the operational hours of commercial motorcyclists (okada) and tricycle operators (keke), describing the directive as “anti-people” and a move that will worsen the already harsh economic conditions in the local government area.
With the directive set to take full effect on November 5, concerned residents appealed to Hon. Bright Abeke to review the policy, insisting that while maintaining order was important, such laws must not come at the expense of the people’s welfare.
The directive, contained in a recent security circular notice, and issued by the council under the leadership of Hon. Bright Abeke, seeks to regulate transport operations within the metropolis.
According to the circular, okada riders are allowed to operate only between 6am and 8pm, while keke operators are to run from 6am to 10pm daily.
A youth advocate, Comrade Utseoritselaju Ayo, in a post on his Facebook page, faulted the directive, describing it as “draconian” and “insensitive to the plight of the poor.”
“This law will bring hunger and extortion to the struggling masses,” he wrote.
Several residents who spoke to newsmen share the same concern, warning that the new rule would not only affect late-hour business activities but could also lead to extortion by some security operatives charged with enforcing it.
“We fear this law will be used to exploit innocent riders and passengers,” a trader at Olympia Market said. “Instead of helping, it may make life harder for everyone.”
With the directive set to take full effect on November 5, residents are appealing to Hon. Bright Abeke to review the policy, insisting that while maintaining order is important, such laws must not come at the expense of the people’s welfare.
