Badagry Police Urge Night-Riding Okada Riders to Shun Criminality, Prioritize Safety
The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Badagry Police Station, CSP Folajimi Akosile, has cautioned commercial motorcyclists against operating late at night, warning of the associated dangers and criminal implications.
Speaking during a stakeholder meeting on Monday with motorcycle riders and their union executives in Badagry, Lagos State, Akosile condemned the increasing trend of motorcyclists plying roads between 1:00 a.m. and 4:00 a.m.
“I was heading to the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON) around 1:00 a.m. when I spotted two motorcyclists inside the bush along Idale-Topo Road. I stopped to inquire, but they fled the scene. I also saw another rider asleep beside his parked motorcycle in the bush — this is dangerous,” he said.
He urged riders to return home after work and avoid resting in isolated or unsafe areas. The DPO further advised them to always secure their motorcycles to prevent theft.
“In our last meeting on November 7, I recommended the use of leather padlocks to secure your bikes. They are inexpensive and can deter theft,” Akosile added.
The DPO also emphasized the importance of lawful conduct, encouraging riders to avoid criminal behavior and maintain peace to prevent arrest.
Alhaji Umar Idris, the Seriki Hausa of Ibereko, expressed gratitude for the DPO’s continued engagement and assured that the message would be translated to riders who do not understand English.
In support, Mr. Babatunde Adigun, Chairman of the Badagry commercial motorcyclists, noted that crime rates had significantly dropped since Akosile assumed duty. He praised the DPO for reducing theft and unlawful arrests, and pledged the union’s full cooperation in maintaining peace and order in the area.