No fewer than 25 motorcycle operators popularly called okada have been reportedly killed in Bori, headquarters of Khana Local Government of Rivers State as a result of the incessant cult activities going on in the area.
Comrade Mathew Godfrey Inee, chairman of the association of motorcycle operators made the disclosure in his office at Bori while interacting with newsmen. He also said several motorcycles have been snatched at gunpoint from his members across Khana.
He noted that some of the motorcycles have been recovered from the hoodlums through the effort of his association and the police.
While commending the security agencies in the area for their assistance and support, he also called on the government at all levels to come to the aid of the Ogonis by ensuring that those perpetrating the dastardly acts in the area are completely flushed out.
The chairman who also advised all motorcycle operators in the area to register with the union in their own interest said it was necessary because it would help for proper identification to differentiate members from criminal elements who use motorcycles to commit crimes.
He listed measures put in place for proper identification of members to include, registration and collection of complete biometrics of all members, the issuance of local government protective vest and the sharing of special phone numbers among others to enable them call whenever there is problem.
Comrade Godfrey however kicked against the plan to ban motorcycles in the area, because it’s the main means of survival for the youths.
He further admonished his members to be security conscious and desist from engaging in criminal activities capable of tarnishing the image of the union.
He also used the opportunity to congratulate the state governor, Chief Barr. Wike on his re-election and pledged his association’s unalloyed support.
On his part, Barr. Leyiga Bari Wibie blamed the insecurity in Ogoni on the activities of the police and the traditional rulers, pointing out that the police have failed the people as they lack the capacity to carry out their jobs effectively.
According to him, if the police cannot secure the lives and property of the people, the government should consider recruiting the Boy Scout, Man O’ War, Boys Brigade to replace them. He stated these paramilitary agencies have what it takes to do the job.
Arguing that no traditional ruler in the area will deny knowing the boys who are disturbing the communities, the legal practitioner opined that some of the police who have stayed for too long in the area should be transferred.
