Tensions erupted in Delta State as reports emerged of the alleged killing of two motorcyclists, commonly known as Okada riders, by the Delta State Government task force in the Koka junction area by Ibusa road, Asaba, the state capital.
According to eyewitnesses, the fatal incident occurred during a clash between Okada riders and task force officers on Sunday, stemming from a raid on a makeshift bar where the motorcyclists frequently gathered. The raid was reportedly prompted by the prohibition of motorcycles in the area.
Protests erupted on Monday as Okada riders took to the streets, blocking major roads in Oshimili South and Oshimili North Local Government Areas to denounce the killings of their colleagues. Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of violence and resistance, with reports suggesting that the relocation of the motorcyclists by the task force triggered the deadly confrontation.
While confirming the incident, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Bright Edafe, acknowledged that the confrontation between the task force and the Okada riders resulted in the deaths of two individuals. He assured that the police were actively investigating the matter and maintaining control over the situation.
Eyewitness testimonies provided varying accounts of the events leading to the fatalities, with allegations of excessive use of force by the task force. The tragedy has sparked outrage among the Okada riders’ community and raised concerns about the regulation of informal transport activities in the state.