Major roads and markets in Asaba and Okpanam, Delta State, experienced tumultuous scenes on Monday as disgruntled commercial motorcycle riders took to the streets to express their grievances following the reported deaths of their colleagues during an enforcement operation by the State Task Force.
Witnesses reported that the protesters, filled with anger, resorted to acts of violence, resulting in property damage and disruptions to business activities.
The demonstrations unfolded primarily in the Oshimili South and Oshimili North Local Government Areas of the State, targeting areas near the popular Midwifery Market in Okpanam and the State’s Post Primary Education Board along Sunnis Road in Asaba.
According to Bright Edafe, the Delta State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), the unrest stemmed from an incident on Sunday where two motorcycle riders lost their lives during an encounter with operatives of the State Task Force.
SP Edafe confirmed that the police swiftly deployed personnel to manage the situation and prevent any further escalation of violence.
In a statement shared on his X account, SP Edafe elaborated, “There was a violent protest this morning by Okada riders who had an issue last night with the state task force that led to the death of two persons. They mobilised in their numbers this morning, destroying properties and beating people, hence our men were deployed to control the situation before it turned to something else.”
