Thousands of returning Okada drivers held by military in Adamawa as security fears mount

THOUSANDS of Adamawa State indigenes have returned home over the last week have been made redundant and unemployed as a result of the recent decision by the Lagos State government to ban motorcycle and tricycle taxis.

Last week, Governor Babajide Sanwoolu announced the outlawing of motorcycle taxis known as Okadas and tricycle taxis known as Kekes or Marwas across most parts of the state. This decision has left thousands of people jobless as it has crippled a thriving industry and many Lagosians now have to walk to work as transport prices have spiralled, doubling along most routes.

Yesterday, there was turmoil at Maraban Mubi in Adamawa State as a result of massive return of motorcycle and tricycles commercial riders from Lagos.  One eyewitness said confusion set in at the junction when the Lagos-based riders were denied entry to their different localities in Mubi, Maiha, Michika, and Madagali local government areas of the state by military personnel.

Yola, the state capital, has also witnessed an influx of indigenes returning from Lagos, who have returned to pursue other possible means of livelihood. Apparently, the military are holding some of them captive, fearful that they may be terrorists or their presence may result in increased insecurity.