Tension is mounting across parts of Lagos Mainland as commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as Okada riders, have resurfaced on major roads in Oyingbo—months after the Lagos State Government reaffirmed its ban on their operations in several parts of the state.
Their return has sparked widespread outrage among residents, who say the area is once again battling an upsurge in Okada-related robberies, phone snatching, and accidents.
A viral video circulating online shows scores of riders operating freely along Oyingbo Road and adjoining streets, ferrying passengers in open defiance of the state’s directive. The development, residents say, reflects a breakdown in enforcement and growing impunity among commercial riders.
Speaking to Lagos Reporters, a resident, Mr. Tunde, described the situation as alarming.
“Okada riders are back everywhere. They now use the bikes to snatch phones and rob people going to work early in the morning. The police see them every day but do nothing,” he lamented.
Another resident, who preferred not to be named, accused some law enforcement officers of aiding the problem.
“The government has failed to enforce its own ban. Some policemen collect money from these riders and allow them to operate freely. That’s why they’re back on the roads,” the resident alleged.
The Lagos State Government had earlier restricted Okada operations in several high-risk areas—including Ikeja, Surulere, Apapa, and Lagos Island—citing persistent safety and security concerns. However, enforcement across parts of the Mainland, particularly in Oyingbo and Ebute Metta, appears to have weakened in recent months.
Commuters now report frequent cases of phone snatching, pickpocketing, and traffic robbery allegedly involving Okada riders, while residents accuse authorities of negligence.
Many are now calling on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Lagos State Commissioner of Police to intervene urgently and restore order to the affected areas.
“This is becoming unbearable. We voted for a government that will enforce laws, not one that tolerates lawlessness,” a trader near Oyingbo Market said.
As of the time of filing this report, the Lagos State Government had yet to issue an official statement regarding the resurgence of Okada operations in the area.