Commercial and social activities were disrupted for several hours in Bauchi metropolis on Tuesday as commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Achaba, staged a protest against what they described as persistent harassment by Vehicle Inspection Officers, VIOs.
The riders decried the frequent seizure of their motorcycles for lacking registration plates, body numbers, and valid licences, saying the clampdown was crippling their livelihoods.
In a show of defiance, hundreds of motorcyclists rode dangerously through major roads, chanting slogans and demanding an end to what they called “harsh enforcement measures”.
DAILY POST reports that the protest caused gridlock in parts of the city, with riders converging at strategic points, including the Bauchi city gate.
Eyewitnesses reported that protesters blocked roads along Bauchi–Jos Road, Yandoka Road, Ahmadu Bello Way, and Yakubun Bauchi Road, forcing motorists and commuters to a standstill.
Some of the riders argued that motorcycle transport remains their sole means of livelihood, warning that the ongoing crackdown was worsening their economic struggles.
Security operatives were seen monitoring the protest to prevent escalation, though no violence was recorded.If You’re Reading From Phoenix Click On Read Original To Read Full Article
As of press time, the Bauchi State Government and law enforcement agencies had yet to issue an official statement on the demonstration.
𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗔𝗽𝗽 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗔𝘀 𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝗗𝗿𝗼𝗽!
