[dropcap]L[/dropcap]arge number of commercial motorcyclists were yesterday, seen moving out of Anambra State to other states apparently because of the banning of motorcycle riding in two major cities of the state, including Awka, the state capital and Onitsha, the commercial hub by the state government, which takes effect from July 1st.
A motorcycle operator who operates in Awka said that his only source of livelihood was commercial motorcycle riding, and that since the state government had banned motorcycle riding, he had no need of remaining in the state. Asked where he was heading to, he replied, “I must tell you the truth, I don’t have any particular place in mind where I am going to now as you see me. But I told myself that it is better I move out now from Awka before police people seize this my Okada.” It has been noticed that several male youths have been moving out of the state with their personal belongings, including mattresses, bags, etc tied on the back of the motorcycle since two days now.
At Onitsha, major standing points for commercial motorcyclists were empty yesterday following the state government ban. From Bridgehead to Upper Iweka,a single motorcycle was not seen on the Express road.The situation was the same at Tracas bus stop, Oguta road,Ekene Junction, Old and New Market roads.
Some residents of Onitsha expressed their gratitude to the state government saying that this will stop criminal activities linked to commercial motorcyclists but lamented the economic hardship it will create to families who genuinely rely on commercial motorcycle for their livelihood as well as the long distance people will trek in getting to places that are not motorable.
The state government has mobilised the men of the state command of the corps and police to enforce the motorcycle riding ban beginning from 8pm, yesterday.Police vans were seen on patrol while travelers who disembarked at the Upper Iweka contended with their loads. More commercial tricycle operators were also seen enjoying business boom.
One of them who reacted to the development said its a welcome development but still appealed to the state government to provide more empowerment to the banned okada riders.