Group Calls On Council Chairman To Intervene Over Extortion Of Bike Riders

By Simeon OSAJIE

A group known as “Bail Is Free Campaign” on behalf of Bike Riders Association, Evbuotubu in Egor Local government area of Edo State has called on the Egor Local Government Chairperson, Hon. Eghe Ogbemudia over an alleged unfair practices and extortion by one Monday, Egor Local Government Council Coordinator of Annawart, along with his associate known as KC, and their group in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State.

In a petition addressed to Egor Local Government Chairman and made available to newsmen the group stated that despite purchasing valid tickets and stickers that authorize the Bike Riders to operate within Egor, particularly in Evbuotubu, they are continuously subjected to extortion, harassment, and intimidation by one Monday, Coordinator of Egor LGC Annawart and his associate known as KC, and their group.

According to group, “Monday who claimed to be the coordinator of Egor LGC Annawart restricts Evbuotubu Bike Riders ability to work in certain areas, demanding unwarranted payments ranging from N5,000 to N10,000 without providing official receipts from the Egor Local Government. Additionally, they forcefully confiscate bikes, requiring riders to pay exorbitant fees of N10,000 to N15,000 at the secretariat, yet failing to furnish any proof of payment to the Egor Local Government Council.

“We are weary of the oppression and deceitful practices of these individuals who claim to enforce tax compliance.

“In the midst of challenging economic conditions, the Bike Riders have families to support, and the oppressive demands by Monday of Annawart make our lives even more difficult.

“We sincerely request your assistance to liberate the Bike Riders from the clutches of Annawart, allowing them freedom to work within the confines of Egor and Evbuotubu without fear or hindrance.

“Sir, the mission of the Bail is Free Campaign Group Organization is to establish a fair and egalitarian society. For further information about our activities, please visit our Facebook page: Bail is Free Campaign Group Organization.

“Your understanding and cooperation are greatly appreciated,” the group said.

Reacting to the allegation, Mr. Agbondimi while responding on behalf of Egor Local Government Council Chairman, said Annawart is a Trade Union Congress (TUC) affiliation. They are in charge of motorbus, Motorbike, Tricycle and Motorcycle. I am aware that their union is enforcing no motorcycle on express road as pronounced by Edo State government. Those restricted area they are not supposed to see their motorcycle.

“On the issue of Annawart members failing to issue Egor Local Government Council receipt to Bike Riders as a proof of any payment they made is a criminal act. Be rest assure that this matter will be look into by the council authority,” he said.