THE CHALLENGES FACING COMMERCIAL MOTORCYCLE OCCUPATION IN ETSAKO WEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, EDO STATE, NIGERIA

This study examined the challenges facing commercial motorcycle occupation in Edo State, Nigeria. A descriptive survey design was adopted. Data were collected through questionnaires and in-depth interviews (IDIs) among selected motorcyclists, police officers and road safety officials in Etsako West Local Government Area, Edo State. A total of 255 questionnaires were administered and 10 in-depth interviews were conducted. Data analyses involved univariate and content analyses. The findings revealed that social stigmatization due to the use of motorcycles for criminal activities, lack of protection and inadequate clothing for riders, recklessness, impatience, over speeding and non-compliance to traffic rules, ban and arrest of innocent motorcyclists and payment of incessant levies are the major challenges of commercial motorcyclists in Etsako West, Edo State. The findings were discussed with reference to relevant empirical literatures, and with recommendations both for practice and future research highlighted.