‘Why There Will Be An Increase In Armed Robbery In Lagos’

BY TAIWO FATOKI

Crime is already an issue of concern in Lagos, but read this story and you will agree that the rate may increase unless…

Because of disturbances by officials of the Lagos Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), we no longer earn as before. The restriction has been affecting me because this is the only job that i have chosen to do.  And it has not been paying since the restriction.

Because nobody knows tomorrow, those in authority should put the fear of God first in whatever they do.

–Uche Peter, K eke rider

The restriction of commercial motorbikes and keke It is a good decision by the government, in the sense that it has reduced the traffic congestion in Lagos. You will notice that all the kidnapping and other vices have reduced. However, the Lagos state government should provide another avenue for those dislodged to sustain themselves. There would be an increase in armed robbery in Lagos if the Lagos government refuses to provide for the restricted riders.

Though  luxurious buses have been provided to transport people in Lagos, the most important thing is that the riders should be involved in doing other things. Many have relocated to Ogun state and there is overpopulation in Ogun state which will lead to armed robbery.

People that are learned should be employed and the unlearned should get involved in small scale business.

–Victor Babarinde

If the government wants to restrict riders, it should provide jobs. Some of us have certificates and there is no job. Government should provide enough jobs. Napep is sold for N670, 000 each, and somebody from nowhere came to restrict the riders. Lagos government should provide enough jobs to settle us.

-Alabi Olanrewaju, keke rider

We are told that the restriction on keke and okada is for security purposes. We abide by the law but they still disturb us. Government should intervene for us. My earnings have dropped.The restriction has affected those paying in instalments because they cannot meet up.

The keke owners are taking advantage of the riders and they are giving it to those in local governments for another instalment basis.  Those that have not paid have to start from square one. It affects most people riders as there are no jobs. I heard the government wants to bring Korope (small bus); if it true, the government should hasten up about it in the interest of those interested in transportation because a hungry man is an angry man.

-Kunle Oladiran, Keke Rider

It is worrisome. Production is declining and the restriction affects those who rely on mobility for their production activities. As a person, it is affecting me too, in terms of meeting up appointments.  The government should make provision for alternatives.

–Joseph Jatto