So the Lagos state government has proposed implementing a heavy restriction on Okadas (commercial bike drivers) and some are saying its an outright ban. What do you think about this? I personally think this is a bad idea which may have terrible consequences.
What are the drivers of these bikes to do? Are you aware of the implications of them being left jobless? It may actually be cheaper in the long run to put a strict training programme in place rather than create a mass of unemployed men who have to survive one way or the other.
A lot of these boys have been sent from their respective communities, often from the North to fend for their families. Yes they drive badly, but so does the average vehicle driver :). I think there needs to be a complete but gradual fool proof overhaul of the way drivers are trained and are issued licences! Or is it too much work trying to figure out how to train these young men so to make them road safe?
Yes there are plenty of accidents involving Okada riders, but I don't think these young men are suicidal, all they need is the necessary training on awareness and road safety.
Shutting down a whole way off eking out a living will only lead to the increase of crime!
I suggest a stringent course for drivers and a fool proof method of getting them to complete it.
Those that have made this decision may not use this form of transport but ultimately they may end up becoming a victim of the unemployed ex drivers they will have created.
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