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Lagos commercial motorcycle operators protest ban, seek regulation
Commercial motorcycle operators, comprising Gokada, Max and 1st Ride companies, on Friday staged a peaceful protest against the recent ban of their operations in parts of Lagos State.
The operators, who protested from Ojota area to the Lagos State House of Assembly, Ikeja, called on the state government to regulate their operations rather than ban them.
Mr Steve Orajiaku of 1st Ride company, told newsmen that the state government did not consult with the operators before taking the decision.
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“We are not happy with the way the ban was done.
“We believe we are running a democratic government where a decision of this sort, very crucial to the lives of people, irrespective of whatever the reason is, is about to be taken, and the stakeholders were ignored. It is unfair, sir.
“We are here to say that the decision that Lagos State Government has taken should be suspended for now, we are pleading.
“What we are here for is not to cause any mayhem, it is not to also insult your personality, we are here because we are law-abiding citizens,” Orajiaku said.
He said that the operators were aware of government’s concern about security and lives of people.
According to him, the operators are educated and professionals, and have been riding the motorcycles without accidents.
Uche Ekemiri from Gokada, said the operators had obeyed the government’s law by upgrading their bikes, and had undergone intensive training to ensure their capabilities of taking the job.
“Our bikes have tracking devices and camera. We went for blood and eye tests. Government should call us and see the possibility of regulating us.
“We pay tax to government, and we are ready to have license; government just woke up one day and banned us.
“I don’t see reasons they should ban us. This is what we do for a living,” Ekemiri said.
A female operator, Sandra Ebina of Gokada, said the proceeds from riding commercial motorcycles had helped her to further her education.
Ebina appealed to the state government to have a rethink on the ban, as it would affect her livelihood and those of other riders.
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She said:“I am an accountant; I finished my OND from YabaTech. This is the job I do to train myself in school. If I leave this job, there is nothing else for me to do.
“Government should regulate us and not ban us. We are professionals. This is what we do to feed our families. Where do we go from here?”
Responding, Mr Bisi Yusuf, representing Alimosho Constituency 1, on behalf of the Speaker, Mr Mudashiru Obasa, commended the protesters for being peaceful.
Yusuf urged them to abide by the new ban, pending when the state government would decide on their requests.
“Protest is an ingredient of democracy. We commend you for the peaceful demonstration. We will go through your petition.
“However, we urge you to keep cool and keep to the law, until we call you back. Government has made pronouncement on the issue. Don’t allow anybody to hijack the protest because you will be held responsible for it.
“Very soon, we will call you. Maintain the law. It is when the government sees your conduct that they will know what to do,” he said.
Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and former First Lady Patience Ibifaka Jonathan recently celebrated a significant family milestone as they attended the graduation ceremony of their son, Ariara Goodluck Jonathan, at Manchester Metropolitan University in the United Kingdom.
The proud parents joined family members and well-wishers to witness Ariara receive his degree, marking the successful completion of his academic programme. The occasion was filled with joy as the Jonathan family commemorated the achievement, highlighting the importance they place on education and personal development.
The graduation ceremony attracted warm congratulatory messages from friends, associates, and admirers, who wished the graduate continued success in his future endeavours.
The Following names joined the political family of Sen. Dr. George Akume today after leaving the sinking Alia ship .
Under the leadership of Barr. Emmanuel Jime .
The are ;
Chief Nelson Alapa
Douglas pepe SAN senatorial Aspirant zone A,
Engr Peter Ashiekaa
QS Clement Beetseh
Former commissioners
Joy Luga
Ann itodo
Barr martins Shaagee
Miss Dorcas
Prof Usar Joseh
Prof Cephas Tushima
Chief Patrick Idoko
Hon Patience Akor
Hon Fred Idoko
Hon Lawrence Ekpo Onoja Jnr
Hon Andrew Abah
Hon Agbo Innocent Ikwumonu
Hon Simon Omachoko
Hon David Egboja
Dr John Garba
Among together,
Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSE, Executive Director (Networks) of the Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC), has extended his heartfelt congratulations to Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, on his renomination as the Vice Presidential candidate for the 2027 general elections, alongside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.
In his message, Engr. Bello described the renomination as a beautiful affirmation of the Vice President’s enduring commitment to Nigeria’s unity, stability, and prosperity. He noted that Senator Shettima, himself a former Senator of the Federal Republic, has consistently embodied resilience, foresight, and a deep sense of responsibility, qualities that continue to inspire confidence across the nation.
“This renomination is a shining testament to your unwavering dedication to the Nigerian people,” Engr. Bello stated. “It reflects the trust of the party and the citizens in your ability to guide our country toward greater progress, peace, and prosperity. Your leadership has been a beacon of hope, and this endorsement is richly deserved.”
Engr. Bello further emphasized that Senator Shettima’s political journey has been marked by courage and service. From his tenure as Governor of Borno State to his current role as Vice President, he has consistently championed initiatives that address national challenges, foster economic growth, and promote inclusive development.
As a leader in the power sector, Engr. Bello highlighted the importance of visionary leadership in driving infrastructure and energy reforms. He expressed confidence that Senator Shettima’s continued role in government will further strengthen Nigeria’s capacity to deliver reliable power, expand opportunities, and improve the quality of life for millions of citizens.
He prayed that Almighty Allah grants the Vice President wisdom, strength, and good health to continue serving the nation with distinction. “May Allah bless your efforts, guide your decisions, and grant you success as you carry forward the responsibility of leadership,” he added.
The message concluded with a reaffirmation of goodwill and support: “Congratulations once again, Your Excellency. We look forward to your continued contributions to the peace, progress, and prosperity of Nigeria.”
Signed:Engr. Bello Babayo Bello, FNSEExecutive Director (Networks)Niger Delta Power Holding Company (NDPHC)
Goodluck Jonathan’s Family Celebrates Son’s Graduation in UK
2027 BENUE GUBER: MORE TROUBLE FOR GOV ALIA
ENGR. BELLO BABAYO BELLO FELICITATES VICE PRESIDENT KASHIM SHETTIMA ON RENOMINATION
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