Fatima Boda Boda stage, paidha Town Council

By: Tasha Giramia

A section of boda boda riders operating in Paidha Town Council, Zombo District, on Wednesday staged a protest at the Town Council offices over what they described as unfair treatment by security personnel.

The aggrieved riders, mainly members of the Fatima Boda Boda Association, accused police of subjecting them to harassment without providing clear reasons. They also alleged that one of their colleagues was slapped by a police officer during the operation.

The protest follows the deployment of security officers at the Fatima Boda Boda stage, located adjacent to the Paidha Central Police Station, where riders and bicycle transport operators, commonly known as blockers, were prevented from accessing their usual operating area.

Speaking to Radio Paidha FM, one of the riders, Manasi Jalgoi, questioned the decision to evict them from the stage, saying many depend on the business to support their families.“Police should remember that we are also human beings with families to feed. This has been our workplace for many years. If we are removed from here, where do they expect us to earn a living?” he said.

Another rider, Ochaya Sebi Mohammed, appealed to government leaders to engage the affected operators through dialogue before implementing such directives.

He argued that consultations would help both parties reach mutually acceptable solutions, noting that boda boda riding remains the primary source of income for many young people in the area.

The Fatima Boda Boda stage is home to approximately 120 operators, including both motorcycle riders and bicycle transport operators.

The protesters are demanding a written directive clearly stating the reasons for their eviction, as well as the officially designated location where they are expected to relocate. They warned that they would continue protesting unless the concerns are addressed.

Meanwhile, the District Police Commander (DPC) for Zombo District confirmed the operation, saying it is part of a nationwide security directive currently being implemented. However, he did not provide further details on the specific objectives of the exercise.