Okada ban: Approach ASBA for loans ―Motorcyclists

AHEAD of the July 1, ban on the use of commercial motorcycles popularly known as Okada in Awka and Onitsha, Anambra State, motorcycle operators have been advised to approach the Anambra State Small Business Agency, (ASBA) for soft loans.

The member representing Onitsha North 1 Constituency in the State House of Assembly, Barr. Chugbo Enwezor, who gave the advice in Awka, said the loan would assist them to diversify into other legitimate businesses, as well as cushion the effect of the proposed Okada ban in the two major cities.

He also enjoined the Okada operators to quickly form cooperative societies to further expedite their discussions and partnership with ASBA for loan facilities to enable them to go into mini-bus and tricycle operations as well as other legitimate enterprises.

Expressing delight over the state government preparedness to make several mini-buses available for interested persons, the lawmaker explained that the gesture has further demonstrated that the Obiano administration was responsive and people oriented.

Similarly, National co-ordinator of APGA Media Warriors Forum, Evang Chinedu Obigwe, has commended the state governor for rolling out a stimulus package to cushion the effects of the proposed Okada ban.

Obidigwe, in a press release, said the gesture of the governor portrayed him as a humane governor that feels the pain of those he was governing.

“Any Okada rider that fails to utilise the opportunity of Governor Obiano’s latest stimulus package should put the responsibility of the effects of the proposed Okada ban on his doorstep.

“The Governor has provided a good alternative for them and will not take them to the stream and force them to drink water from the stream,” he said.