Outrage as Lagos motorbike ban takes effect

Roads in the Nigerian business capital of Lagos were backed up during rush hour on Monday as the controversial ban on motorbikes and motorised tricycle taxis took effect. 

Commuters were incensed at the lengthy delays, with many complaining they had to walk to work, despite officials providing an additional 65 buses at major roads. 

The motorbike taxis, known as okadas, and tricycle taxis, known as keke napeps, are the main mode of transport in the city. On Monday #OkadaBan was the top-trending hashtag on Twitter. 

Commuters took to the social media site to express their frustration, often criticising Lagos governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. 

“Apparently I got robbed on my way to work, they snatched my bag from me, thank you sanwo olu for making me walk to places I wouldn’t walk to before. [T]weeting with this laptop till further notice #OkadaBan #KekeBan”, wrote @Steffany_mma.

Lagos state government had said that the motorcycle and tricycle taxi ban had been introduced to prevent deaths and disorderliness on the roads. 

The legislation has prompted protests by taxi drivers and 40 people have already been arrested for refusing to comply with the ban. 

Photo: Akintunde Akinleye/Reuters