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Banning Okada, Tricycle in Lagos is Evil – NANS

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Lagos State Babajide Sanwo Olu
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The National Association of Nigeria Students (NANS) said restricting tricycle and motorcycle from plying certain areas in Lagos State is evil.

This is contained in a statement widely circulated and received by Informavores!

The statement read, “We read with disappointment the order by the Lagos State Government restricting tricycle and motorcycle from plying certain areas in the State and, after thorough and critical analysis of the policy, we make bold to assert that it is evil and it would help strengthen crime, joblessness and corruption in the society. push({}); googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js">

“We remind the public that this is the umpteenth time that the Lagos State Government is banning Okada and tricycle citing closely but different reasons. These reasons in all sincerity really lack genuinty as these same okada are allowed close to elections to the extent that politician share it to young unemployed graduates in their constituency as means of empowerment.

“Also, it is pure irresponsibility for a government to ban peoples’ jobs and not create another in replacement. What has Governor Sanwo-Olu done as policy to replace the okada? If government cannot provide jobs, is it not political insanity to ban jobs. We are reminded of the Yoruba saying that “an Oracle that couldn’t save or uplift should at least leave us the way we are.”

Let it be known that the rationale given by the State Government for the introduction and enforcement of this policy that motorcycle is being used by criminals to perpetuate crime is ill-conceived and not well-thought. The reality is that one is more likely to be kidnapped with a car than with a bike and armed robbers are more likely to use a car than a bike.

“Also, it is the lack of real social infrastructures that is causing crime, not okada. We need to ask the Lagos State Government how many jobs they have created in the past two years? We need to also ask Governor Sanwo-Olu why Lagos State since 1999 never had any new higher institution: the worst record in the South West. Not even a new Technical College! Instead of Governor Sanwo-Olu to face the real issues causing crimes, all he does is to follow, like others before him, that cruel ritual of blaming the victims for the woes inflicted from the top. Nigerian students have had enough.

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“In fact, if something aiding another thing is a ground to cancel it, the question now is, why not scrap the State House of Assembly and Senate because they aid wastage of money? Another angle is that many places that the Lagos State Government have deem it fit to ban okada are not motorable while some are not routes of commercial buses. Bikes and keke are the only option. We make bold to assert that the government cannot just wake up to place a ban on motorcycle if they have not provided alternatives as is the situation today. This means the people should be suffering while the governor and his cronies fly helicopters all around.

It is on record that Opay and the likes are registered as a corporate body with the government and they pay tax and it was this same government that gave them license to operate. Now if the government is now banning okada, this automatically means that it discourages people from investing in our economy so far the government can wake up and spoil the investment with an ill-conceived policy.”

The statement thereby gave 10 days ultimatum to the state government to revert the policy.

“We demand that Governor Sanwo-Olu halt the ban on okada and face the real issues as we have raised.

“We therefore reiterate that the Lagos State Government should;
*Lift the ill-conceived and irresponsible ban on okada NOW.
*Provide mass employment to Lagosians by creating real transportation like water, rail, and others for the mass of the people.
*Start a real intra-road networking that will ease the sufferings of Lagosians instead of all the massive bad roads that litter everywhere from Obalende to Alimosho.
*Stop undemocratic policies that is not congressional and is quite disastrous. Many lives were destroyed in the old bans on okada. This only increases poverty, crime and unemployment.

*Lagos State must create new tertiary schools from Technical Colleges to Universities. It is a shame that the richest State in Nigeria have no new institutions since the birth of democracy in 1999 and the existing ones are not being properly funded.

“By this statement, the students of Southwestern Nigeria is giving the Lagos State Government 10 working days to lift the ban on okada, negotiate with the Okada Unions and apologise to Lagosians for the inconveniences.

“In all, we call on all student to know that many Okada riders are graduates fending for themselves because of the irresponsibility of successive government. Hence, such jobs for survival must not be criminalized while we demand living jobs with living wages for all!

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Lagos State Government on Monday wielded the big stick against the menace of commercial motorcycles (Okada) and tricycles (Keke NAPEP), proscribing their operations in six Local Government Areas (LGAs), nine Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) and 10 major highways across the State with effect from February 1.

The State Government directed security operatives to embark on a total enforcement of the State’s Transport Sector Reform Law of 2018 to immediately address the chaos and disorderliness created by illegal operations of Okada and tricycle riders in restricted areas.

Besides, the Government also banned Okada and tricycles from plying 40 bridges and flyovers across the State.

Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotoso, who made the announcement at the State House in Alausa, said the measures were taken by the Government in response to “scary figures” of fatal accidents recorded from operations of Okada and tricycles in the State between 2016 and 2019.

Mr. Omotoso said the lack of regard for the Lagos Traffic Laws by the Okada and tricycle riders had resulted in preventable loss of lives, adding that their impermissible movements on restricted highways had also contributed to traffic jams.

He said: “After a robust assessment of the debate on what has been widely referred to as the motorcycle (Okada) and tricycle (Keke) menace, the Lagos State Government and the State Security Council have decided that the security and safety of lives of Lagosians are paramount.

“The figures are scary. From 2016 to 2019, there were over 10,000 accidents recorded at the General Hospitals alone. This number excludes unreported cases and those recorded by other hospitals. The total number of deaths from reported cases is over 600 as at date.

“Also, the rate of crimes aided by Okada and Keke keeps rising. They are also used as getaway means by criminals. Therefore, after consultations with stakeholders, the State Security Council, in compliance with the extant Transport Sector Reform Law 2018, has decided to commence enforcement of the law which bans the operation of Okada and Keke in six Local Government Areas and nine Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs).”

Omotoso said the enforcement would be total, warning that the Government would deal with violators in accordance with the Laws. He added that there would be zero tolerance for the movement of the banned vehicles on the listed highways and bridges.

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According to the Commissioner, operations of Okada and Keke NAPEP have been banned in the following LGAs and LCDAs: Apapa LGA, Apapa Iganmu LCDA, Lagos Mainland LGA, Yaba LCDA, Surulere LGA, Itire-Ikate LCDA, and Coker-Aguda LCDA.

Others are Ikeja LGA, Onigbongbo, LCDA, Ojodu LCDA, Eti-Osa LGA, Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA, and Iru-Victoria Island LCDA, Lagos Island LGA and Lagos Island East LCDA.

The Okada and Keke NAPEP are restricted on the following highways and bridges:

Major Highways

  1. Lagos-Ibadan Expressway
  2. Apapa-Oshodi Expressway
  3. Oworonshoki-Oshodi Expressway
  4. Lagos-Ikorodu Expressway
  5. Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway
  6. Eti-Osa/Lekki-Epe Expressway
  7. Lagos-Badagry Expressway
  8. Funsho Williams Avenue
  9. Agege Motor Road
  10. Eti-Osa Lekki Coastal Road

Bridges

  1. Iyana- Ipaja Bridge Agege
  2. Dopemu Bridge Agege
  3. Airport/Ikeja Bridge
  4. Agege Motor road/oshodi Loop, Oshodi
  5. Mushin/Isolo Link Bridge
  6. Dorman Long Bridge
  7. Ojuelegba Bridge
  8. National Stadium Flyover
  9. Apapa-Iganmu Bridge
  10. Apapa-Ijora Link Bridge
  11. Liverpool Bridge, Apapa
  12. Mile 2 Bridge-Loop, Amuwo-Odofin
  13. Okota (cele)/Ijesha Link Bridge
  14. Apakun/Apapa-Oshodi Bridge Network
  15. Ikorodu Road/Anthony Clover leaf Bridge
  16. Trade Fair Flyover Bridge
  17. Festac/Amuwo-Odofin Link Bridge
  18. 2 Flyover Bridges along Alhaji Masha Road
  19. Ojota Clover leaf Bridge
  20. Ogudu Bridge
  21. 3rd Mainland Bridge
  22. Maryland flyover
  23. Ikeja General Hospital Flyover Bridge
  24. Kodesoh Bridge, Oba Akran, Ikeja
  25. Opebi Link Bridge
  26. Sheraton-Opebi Bridge
  27. Jibowu/Yaba flyover Bridge
  28. Carter Bridge, Lagos
  29. Bariga-Ifako Bridge
  30. Apapa-Oshodi Expressway/Alapere Bridge
  31. Bariga/Oworonsoki Bridge
  32. Apapa-Oshodi Expressway/Gbagada U-Turn
  33. Apapa-Oshodi Expressway
  34. 3rd Mainland/Oworonsoki Bridge
  35. Eko Bridge
  36. Apongbon flyover Bridge
  37. Cowry Bridge (Officers Mess)
  38. Mcwen Bridge (Bonny Camp)
  39. Marina/Ikoyi Bridge
  40. Ikoyi/Obalende Bridge

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Abdulrahman Obaje
Abdulrahman Obaje
Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media and ICT Consultant, Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.

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Investigative Journalists Group, NGIJ Hails Aderinokun on Appointment as Head of Media at Access Corp

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Nigeria Guild of Investigative NGIJ Kunle Aderinokun
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Investigative Journalists Group, the Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists NGIJ has extended a warm congratulations to Mr. Kunle Aderinokun on his appointment as the new Head of Media and Public Relations at Access Corporation. adsbygoogle || []). push({});

In a statement released on Tuesday in Lagos signed by Ayoyemi Mojoyinola, the National President and Israel Bolaji, the National Vice President of NGIJ, the guild described Aderinokun as a versatile journalist, banker, business analyst, media expert and arts enthusiast who would bring his rich years of experience to bear on the new role.

“NGIJ recognises the appointment of Mr. Aderinokun as a significant development, as his decades of robust experience across the media and financial industry undoubtedly be a valuable asset to Access Corporation and the nation.

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“His extensive knowledge, exposure, intellect and expertise in media and finance make him a well-suited candidate for this position

“The NGIJ is confident that Mr. Aderinokun’s appointment will further to the growth and success of Access Corporation. We look forward to witnessing his impactful contributions to the organisation’s media and public relations endeavours,” the statement noted.

Prior to his appointment at Access Corporation, Mr. Aderinokun held various key positions in prestigious organizations. He began his career at First Marina Trust Ltd as an MIS and Account, followed by a role as an Analyst at Wall Street Trust Company.

Subsequently, he served as a Banking Officer at United Bank for Africa Plc and later founded Pure Synergy. At ThisDay Newspaper Group, he distinguished himself as an Associate Editor and Group Business Editor, responsible for editing and writing compelling business stories and analyses.

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Mr. Aderinokun holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics from the University of Ilorin and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Lagos. His educational background, coupled with his extensive professional experience, equips him with a comprehensive understanding of the business landscape.

The Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) is a professional body that promotes investigative journalism, ethical standards, and accountability in Nigeria. The guild comprises seasoned journalists who are committed to upholding the principles of integrity, fairness, and accuracy in their work.

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Abdulrahman Obaje
Abdulrahman Obaje
Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media and ICT Consultant, Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
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ICDA Chairman, Abubakar Sadiq Debunks Rumours of Unpopular Movement, Calls for Prayers

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ICDA Presiddent Abubakar Sadiq
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Igala Cultural and Development Association (ICDA) National President, Alhaji Abubakar Sadiq has debunk rumour making the round on social media that the leadership of the apex social-cultural group of the Igala nation (ICDA) has approved an unpopular movement. push({}); adsbygoogle || []).push({});

Abubakar made this known in his first podcast after the Kogi governorship election held November 11th, 2023 and received by The Informavores!, saying that he did not hold any meeting with anybody approving any unpopular movement.

In his message that was passed in Igala Language and roughly translated, he said in part that, “There is rumour making the round and our people have been calling me left and right concerning some people that ICDA held meeting with or append signature for approval so that they can go to VIPs of Kogi State. “

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”All that rumour is not true. We did not hold meeting with anybody and ICDA did not sign any agreement of approval with anybody”.

“And there is no any Igala son/daughter in this trial time that would volunteer to lead such movement. For this reason, as far as we are concern, all that rumour is not true”

“And so, don’t be deceived and misled by mischief makers.”

Recall that the Kogi State Governorship Election Petition Tribunal sitting in Abuja in the petition filed by Social Democratic Party, SDP and its candidate, Muritala Ajaka is still ongoing and the rumoured movement may not be unconnected with it.

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Abubakar further revealed and reassured that preparation is in top gear to elect new executives members that would pilot the affairs of ICDA in a short period of time.

He concluded his message with prayers and admonish the teaming populace to be more prayerful and steadfast.

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Abdulrahman Obaje
Abdulrahman Obaje
Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media and ICT Consultant, Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
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NGIJ’s Call to President Tinubu: Address Economic and Security Concerns Before Nigerians Take to the Streets

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The Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) has calls on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his All Progressives Congress led-administration to swiftly address pressing issues relating to the economy and security of the country, before Nigerians take to the streets. adsbygoogle || []).push({}); adsbygoogle || []).push({});

In a statement issued on Friday in Abuja, jointly signed by the President and National Secretary of The Guild, Mr. Ayoyemi Mojoyinola and Abdulrahman Aliagan respectively.

“We believe that urgent action is needed in order to prevent further deterioration of these crucial aspects of Nigerian society to avoid street protest that may have negative effect on the nation at large. NGIJ stated.

According to the statement, “We implore the Tinubu led-government to immediately put an end to the dollarisation of the Nigerian economy.

“We noted that the excessive reliance on foreign currency has had a detrimental effect on our nation’s economic stability and is hindering the growth and development of local businesses.

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“It is vital that steps are taken to promote the use of the Nigerian Naira and protect its value.” The Guild said.

“Secondly, we request that the government formulates a comprehensive policy to mitigate the impact of the Fuel Subsidy removal. This decision has burdened Nigerian citizens with high fuel prices and has resulted in increased living costs for many. It is imperative that measures are put in place to alleviate the financial strain on the Nigerian people.”

NGIJ however expresses concern regarding the distribution of the N15,000 palliative. “We firmly believe that this aid will be marred by corruption and will not reach those who are most in need. It is crucial that efficient and transparent mechanisms are established to ensure that relief funds reach the intended beneficiaries.

“Additionally, we urge the government to consider policies that are inclusive and benefit all Nigerians. It is imperative that measures are implemented which take into account a wide spectrum of the population, ensuring that they have access to essential services and a decent standard of living.” NGIJ maintained.

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The Guild pointed out that the issue of insecurity in Nigeria has reached extreme levels, causing distress and fear among citizens.

“No place is safe, and urgent action must be taken to address this matter effectively.

“We call upon the government to prioritise the security of its people and implement strategies that can restore peace and stability throughout the nation.

“Finally, as a body of Journalists, we implore President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to provide sustainable solutions that will guide Nigeria out of its current economic and security quagmire. It is crucial that decisive action is taken to steer the country back onto the right track, both economically and in terms of security.” It said.

The Nigerian Guild of Investigative Journalists (NGIJ) stands ready to support the government in addressing these critical issues and will remain vigilant in ensuring that the interests of the Nigerian people are upheld.

“We therefore call on President to consider our recommendations and take immediate action to propel Nigeria forward towards economic prosperity and security of lives and property in Nigeria. The statement concludes.

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Author Profile

Abdulrahman Obaje
Abdulrahman Obaje
Prince Abdulrahman Obaje is a Media and ICT Consultant, Journalist, online marketer, social media strategist, Mathematician and Computer Scientist based in Abuja, Nigeria. He is the Founder and the Publisher of The Informavores!. You can reach me on +234 805 939 5252 or send i-witness report directly to me on news@informavores.com.ng.
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