Resist LASTMA Arrest, Opeifa Tells Okada Riders

Special Adviser to the Governor of Lagos State on Transportation, Mr. Kayode Opeifa, has told commercial motorcycle operators commonly called okada riders in the state to resist Lagos State Transport Management Authority (LASTMA) officials’ arrest in as much as they have their genuine documents in course of their duties.

He said this while addressing members of Motorcycle Operators Association of Lagos State (MOALS) at a special forum to sanitise them on the ongoing general elections.

Opeifa disclosed the duty of LASTMA officials was to see to the free flow of traffic in the Lagos metropolis. He, however, advised motorcyclists to report any acts of harassment, intimidation and bribery by LASTMA officials to the appropriate authorities.

On charges paid by okada riders to the state government, Opeifa said each member is to pay N800 only and not N1,500 as being speculated in some quarters.

While restating government’s readiness to improve their services rather than ban them, the special adviser urged okada riders to vote for Governor Fashola and other Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) candidates during the elections for continuity and good governance.

Responding, the General Secretary of MOALS, Alhaji S.A. Isiaka, commended the state governor for good providing good road network in the state, while pledging his members’ support for the government at all times.

Present at the forum were Alhaji Abiodun Ibrahim, Alhaji Rasaki Bello, Alhaji Tadese Taiwo, Mr. Odukoya and all unit chairmen of MOALS across the state.