Government Interventions towards Safety Challenges amongst Commuters’ and the Operation of Commercial Motorcycles in Ibadan Metropolis

International Journal of Research and Innovation in Social Science (IJRISS) | Volume III, Issue VIII, August 2019 | ISSN 2454–6186

Government Interventions towards Safety Challenges amongst Commuters’ and the Operation of Commercial Motorcycles in Ibadan Metropolis

Danjibo Nathaniel D, Olasupo Adebayo S , Ojo Oladayo S
Institute for Peace and Strategic Studies University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Nigeria

Abstract: – Commercial motorcycling is a popular mode of public transportation in Ibadan metropolis. However, a number of social problems such as accidents, crimes and human insecurity have been associated with the operations of commercial motorcycling in Ibadan. And little attention paid to the linkages between commuters’ safety, health and security issues. Therefore, this study explored government interventions in addressing problems associated with safety challenges with the commercial motorcycling operation in Ibadan metropolis, Oyo State. A case study design was adopted. A purposive sampling of 24 motorcycle units , 12 focus group discussions with the branch heads and union members of the motorcycle unions and the commuters across the city. Primary and secondary data were collected using qualitative techniques. Twenty-eight in-depth interviews and twelve focus group discussions were conducted. Data collected were content analysed Findings revealed that the use of motorcycles for criminal activities by fake commercial motorcyclists, lack of protection and adequate vests for drivers, reckless driving, impatient, over speeding and non-compliance to traffic rules are the major commuter safety challenges in Ibadan. Thus, state government has implemented policies such as ban of commercial motorcycling and use of helmets which have not yielded the expected behavioural change. As recommended, the government both at the federal and state level should increase the level of security in Ibadan by posting more trained and experienced law enforcement agents in Ibadan metropolis.

Keywords: Government, Interventions, Safety Challenges, Commuters’ Operation, Ibadan

I. INTRODUCTION

Transportation of man, his property, goods and services are essential economic and social factors in the development of any nation. The Federal Government of Nigeria’s National Transport Policy states that a properly functioning and well planned transport structure can engender speedy development and sustainably augment citizenry standard of living (NTP, 2010). Without transportation systems, little opportunities will exist for job creation, health, education and other developmental services; while also alleviating regional inequality by fostering national integration.

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