GBOKO OKADA RIDERS PROTEST MASSIVELY OVER RECENT KILLINGS AND BIKE SNATCHING

Tension gripped Gboko town in Benue State this morning as hundreds of commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as Okada riders, took to the streets in a massive protest. The demonstration was triggered by a series of recent killings and bike snatching incidents that have left several riders dead and many others living in fear. As of the early hours of Friday, major roads across the town were completely blocked, causing gridlock and halting both vehicular and pedestrian movement.

According to eyewitnesses, the protesters gathered as early as 7 a.m., chanting slogans and calling on the government and security agencies to intervene immediately. The riders expressed deep frustration over what they described as the “continuous targeting” of their members by unidentified criminals. Many of them carried placards with inscriptions such as “Stop Killing Okada Riders” and “We Need Security in Gboko Now.” The atmosphere was charged but largely peaceful, though the town remained paralyzed by the roadblocks.

Residents in the area reported that the protest stemmed from yet another violent attack on Thursday night, in which a rider was reportedly ambushed and killed by bike snatchers. His motorcycle was taken away, adding to the growing list of victims in the past few weeks. The incident appears to have been the final spark that pushed the Okada community to voice their anger and demand justice.

Business and transportation activities across Gboko came to a standstill as commuters were stranded. Markets and shops located around Gboko Central and other key junctions remained closed as a precautionary measure. Some residents expressed sympathy for the protesters, acknowledging the dangers faced by Okada riders who often operate late into the night to make a living. Others, however, appealed for calm and urged the protesters to avoid violence or destruction of property.

Local authorities have confirmed awareness of the protest and assured the public that measures are being taken to restore normalcy. Security operatives, including police and members of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, were deployed to strategic areas to monitor the situation and prevent escalation. Community leaders have also stepped in, urging the riders to remain peaceful while promising to engage the government on their behalf.

The Benue State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement regarding the latest killing, but sources say investigations are ongoing. However, many residents believe that a more visible security presence, especially during nighttime, is urgently needed to deter criminals. The riders insist that until decisive steps are taken to protect them, they will continue to voice out their grievances.

As calm slowly begins to return, the people of Gboko are left praying for peace and justice. The repeated attacks have not only threatened the livelihoods of many families but also shaken confidence in local security arrangements. “God please take control,” one resident pleaded, echoing the sentiment shared widely across the community. For now, Gboko remains on alert, hoping that the voices of the Okada riders will lead to lasting solutions and safer roads for everyone.