Nma Skewolo – Minna

Governor Mu’azu Babangida Aliyu of Niger State Thursday accused the opposition of plotting to stage a protest against the ban on commercial motorcycle operations in the state, describing the act as cheap blackmail.

Aliyu alleged that the opposition in the state was teaming up with some notable figures to destabilize the state by creating the false impression that things were not working and pitching the people against the government.

According to a statement by the governor’s chief press secretary, Danladi Ndayebo, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, government in the state acted responsibly and in the interest of the public when it banned the operations of commercial motorcyclists in the state capital, stressing that the law will not be repealed.

“The government of Niger State condemns this cheap blackmail being used by the these disgruntled politicians who have lost out of the power game and are clutching at anything, including mere straws to remain relevant,” it added.

Ndayebo noted that the advantages of the newly introduced tricycles far outweigh those of motorcycles and that no responsible government would sit and watch its citizens die in avoidable road crashes.

“There is no need to politicize the issues on ground, because innocent Nigerlites, irrespective of their party affiliation, suffer greatly, with some, even losing their lives, often times when accidents involving motorcycles occur,” the statement said.

Aliyu said he would not be distracted by the antics of those seeking attention by cheap means, but will remain committed to delivering the dividends of democracy to the people.