Protest against ban on use of motorcycles in Uyo metropolis turns bloody

One person was allegedly killed today in Uyo during a protest by commercial motorcyclists over attempts by the State Police Command to ban their operations in the state capital.

The incident is said to have taken place at the Mbierebe Junction on Goodluck Jonathan Boulevard when some uniformed men identified in police uniform fired shots in the air to disperse the rampaging demonstrators.

Comfort 95.1FM Reporters who visited the scene of the incident said although the corpse of the slain motorcyclist was not seen at the time of the visit, the angry motorcyclists had taken over the road, blocking traffic and burning tyres on the highway.

Our reporter observed that traffic on the road leading to the Nest of champion and adjoining areas, was completely blocked while the motorcyclists, armed with dangerous weapons including stones and machetes, hauled missiles on every passing vehicle.

The stampede also led to multiple accidents including moving vehicles resulting in damage to vehicles and bodily injuries.

Similarly, most parents whose children are attending schools located in the area, were seen looking for ways to evacuate them from the danger zone.

One of the aggrieved motorcycle riders, who spoke to our reporter, gave reasons for the rampage and their demands from the Police.

The demonstrators described the use of motorcycle, as their only source of livelihood in the absence of employment by the Government, saying depriving them of their source of living is like sending them out of the state.