No fewer than five officials of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority were injured on Monday following a violent confrontation with commercial motorcycle riders at Soka junction in Ibadan.
The incident, which occurred in the Oluyole Local Government Area, also led to the destruction of several operational vehicles belonging to the agency.
Findings revealed that the enforcement team was carrying out checks on compliance with the state government’s policy requiring commercial motorcyclists to wear QR code-embedded jackets when the clash broke out.
The situation reportedly escalated after officials halted operations to sensitise riders on the importance of the directive, following widespread non-compliance observed at the location.
Eyewitness accounts indicated that a group of aggrieved riders attacked the officials, throwing stones and wooden objects. One officer was said to have been hit in the chest, while others sustained varying degrees of injuries.
Personnel of the Amotekun Corps, who accompanied the enforcement team, were also caught up in the attack.
In the aftermath of the clash, at least four OYRTMA vehicles were severely damaged, while some of the injured officials were taken to hospital for treatment. As of the time of filing this report, three officers were still receiving medical care.
Confirming the incident, the Chairman of OYRTMA, Adekoya Adesagba, condemned the attack, describing it as a direct challenge to lawful authority.
“Our officers were on legitimate duty to enforce a government policy aimed at ensuring safety, accountability, and proper regulation of commercial motorcycle operations,” he said.
He expressed concern over the violent resistance encountered by the enforcement team.
“It is deeply unfortunate that they were met with such aggression. This act is unacceptable and will not be tolerated,” he added.
Adesagba reiterated that the QR-coded jacket initiative was introduced to enhance public safety and curb criminal activities involving unregistered motorcycle operators.
“We will not be deterred by acts of violence. Enforcement of the policy will continue, and those responsible for this attack will be brought to justice,” he stated.
He also called on transport unions, community leaders, and other stakeholders to support the government’s efforts by educating riders on the importance of complying with the regulation.
Security agencies have since been alerted, while investigations into the incident are ongoing.
