Government Announces Stricter Traffic Enforcement, Warns Violators of Arrest
The Ondo State Government has banned commercial motorcycle operations, popularly known as okada, on some routes in Akure, the state capital, as part of measures to improve traffic management.
The Special Adviser to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Transport, Olumuyiwa Ogunyemi, announced the restriction while speaking with journalists in Akure on Tuesday.
Ogunyemi said okada riders approaching from the Police Officers’ Mess route would be restricted to designated points, while those coming through the First Bank area in Alagbaka would terminate operations around the Teaching Service Commission axis.
He said the government would intensify enforcement of traffic regulations, particularly compliance with traffic lights, following public sensitisation campaigns on the changes to the city’s traffic system.
According to him, the ongoing flyover construction and other infrastructure projects have made it necessary for residents and road users to adapt to new traffic arrangements.
“The people living in the state capital should know that it is no longer business as usual. They must obey traffic lights and traffic regulations,” Ogunyemi said.
He warned that commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators who violate traffic signals would be arrested and prosecuted.
The government also plans to install additional traffic management facilities, including zebra crossings and speed-limit signs, particularly around schools and other sensitive areas.
Ogunyemi urged residents to cooperate with the government and comply with traffic regulations to improve road safety and ensure the free flow of traffic across Akure.