By Timothy Ejoh
Okada riders in Uvwie Local Government Area of Delta State have taken to the streets to protest excessive levy by ‘Agberos’ operating in the council area. The riders gathered at the popular Shaguolo area, Close to Warri Refining and Petrochemical Company Limited, Ekpan; and proceeded to other parts of the local government area to register their grievances.
According to one of the protesters, the Okada riders are facing multiple levy by “different task forces” at several points in the local council area.
The source said that irrespective of the time of the day, the “daredevil” levy collectors who are ready to maim or even do the worse to any rider resisting their demands, could been seen harassing riders who are struggling for their daily bread.
Another rider who gave his name as Famous said, “Okada riding is a very difficult and accident prone vocation which many were compelled to embark on as a result of the unemployment in the country.
He added; “Most of us are degree holders in various disciplines, and some well-trained craftsmen in lucrative employment before the downturn of the economy.
“We don’t have any option but to take to Okada riding. That is why you see us here”.
He called on the council chairman, the member representing Uvwie in Delta State House of Assembly, as well as the Governor of Delta State to rein in the collectors to enable them carry on with their business peacefully.