The Federal Road Safety Corps’ proposal to promote bicycles as a viable mode of transportation has ignited a lively discussion across social media platforms.
During the Flag Off Ceremony for the June 2024 United Nations World Bicycle Day, FRSC Corps Marshal Malam Shehu Mohammed reportedly encouraged Nigerians to embrace cycling, emphasizing its advantages for healthy living and urban mobility.
He highlighted how cycling can foster tranquility, enhance orderliness, and contribute to overall urban peace.
He was quoted as saying, “Without mincing words, no mode of transport promotes the culture of serenity, orderliness, friendly neighbourhoods, and urban peace like the bicycle.
“It is the only individual means of mobility fit for all residents, irrespective of age, gender, or class.”
In light of the recent rise in fuel prices, Nigerians have taken to social media to reignite the conversation.
While some see the suggestion as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution, others have raised concerns about its safety and practicality.
On X.com, tweeting anonymously as #Shile_matrix, one user wrote, “Shouldn’t bicycles be for sport and short distances only? How will people ride for hours daily to work? We don’t even have lanes for bicycles like other developed countries. Na trailer breeze go sweep your keke away.”
#Fighting_IX also commented, “This seems like a very good idea because, in other countries, especially congested cities, it’s the mode of transportation.
But if this is implemented, road traffic rules will need to change. Bikers will need the right to use roads, and pelican crossings will need to be given priority; otherwise, casualties will rise daily.”
“Have they created a bicycle route? They just talk. For safe riding, there has to be a pathway for cyclists,” tweeted #BamiShuaib.
#ThouSonOfMan wrote, “That’s good advice to minimise fuel costs. Even when they travel from Lagos to Kaduna, they should use bicycles.”
Daniel Regha, tweeting as #DanielRegha, challenged FRSC officers to lead by example and use bicycles for work, saying, “I’d like to see FRSC officers moving around on bicycles and parking their government-approved bicycles on the road while doing their jobs. If the agency still uses cars, then they’re hypocrites.”
Okpara Mbaitoli, tweeting as #BrightIykeIMO, similarly wrote, “The FRSC Corps Marshal should lead the way. He should report to work on a bicycle.”
#mpiredivine added, “Be careful if you’re trying this in Lagos. Not only are you at serious risk without bicycle lanes, but they may eventually start charging fees for cyclists.”
Osaro, tweeting as #OfficiaEdoOsasB, commented, “Bicycle landing costs and customs fees are about to skyrocket. Very soon, bicycle importers will be paying demurrage, and before you know it, a bicycle and a Corolla will cost the same.”
On Instagram, #ajit_x said, “Someone should tell Road Safety that the roads aren’t safe enough for this.” #joshuao2000 wrote, “The problem isn’t using a bicycle; the problem is when a Korope or keke shifts your waist because they want to overtake you.”
