Why Okada Should not Be Banned In Lagos state

Posted by Akanakem on Wednesday August 17, 2016 at 16:26:2:

Okada transportation has been banned in many states in Nigeria, and recently, there are rumours that the Lagos State Government also wants to ban Okada from plying the roads in Lagos.

In as much as there are some disadvantages to the Okada transport like the high accident rate which tends to make the decision to ban Okada right, there are many advantages which both the Okada riders and the society gains which make it quite unfair to place a ban on Okada transport in Lagos.

Some of the reasons why Okada should not be banned in Lagos are:
a. They offer Lower Fares at times: Transport rates for Okadas are not fixed. The passenger negotiates with the driver and they reach a compromise on the best rate for the trip. At times, they charge lower rates than some commercial buses because their fares are flexible.

b. They are a source Of Income for many jobless and retired Lagosians: Okada riding provides a source of sustains for the thousands of riders that engage in it. Thus, it has helped to provide jobs for the unemployed and serve as a means of livelihood for them. Taking away the source of livelihood of thousands of persons without providing them with a better alternative is quite unfair. Not just for the Okada riders themselves, but for thousands of people that benefit indirectly from it, example, the Motorcycle spare parts dealers will be affected too.

c. They reduce Crime Rate: Most states that placed a ban on Okada riding are experiencing a massive increase in crime rates. Why? When you take away someone’s means of livelihood without an alternative, the person may resort to crimes to survive. Thus, Okada has helped to reduce the crime rate in Lagos because it's an easy job anyone can do and it has opened a way for many who would have remained jobless and engage in criminal activities.