Violence erupts as okada riders, vigilantes clash in Karu LGA
Tension engulfed parts of Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State following a violent clash between commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as okada riders, and members of a local vigilante group.
The incident, which reportedly began around Ado Junction and later spread to the New Nyanya axis, disrupted commercial activities and caused gridlock along the Abuja–Keffi expressway as residents and commuters scampered for safety.
Neptune Prime staff, Mrs Lillian Hosea, who witnessed the chaos gathered that trouble started when vigilante operatives allegedly attempted to enforce levies and restrict movement of riders accused of operating beyond permitted zones.
READ ALSO: Karu residents demand review as curfew grounds socio-economic activities
Some okada riders resisted, leading to a confrontation that quickly turned violent.
Similarly, unverified social-media videos showed crowds of agitated riders blocking sections of the road and hurling stones, while members of the vigilante group were seen firing warning shots to disperse them.
A Facebook user, Musa Ahmed, who witnessed the clash wrote: “It all started when a rider was stopped by vigilante men who demanded a ticket. The situation escalated after other riders gathered to challenge them. Before we knew it, the fight spread.”
While the exact number of casualties remained unclear as of press time, several people were reportedly injured, and motorcycles were seized or destroyed during the confrontation.
Security reinforcements from the police and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were later deployed to restore order.
READ ALSO: Karu Chairman imposes curfew over security in Nasarawa
The area remained tense into the evening, with shops, schools closed and many residents staying indoors.
Karu LGA authorities have not yet issued an official statement, but local sources say discussions are underway between rider unions, vigilante leaders, and council officials to prevent further violence.
The clash highlights ongoing friction between commercial motorcycle operators and community security outfits across Nasarawa and neighbouring Abuja suburbs, often over levies, operating hours, and alleged harassment.
In August 2024, Karu LGA authorities imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew restricting the movement of okada and keke napep operators following violent protests in the area.
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