Oyetola launches Okada Riders Unique Code to enhance security
Abimbola Abatta, Osogbo
Osun State Governor, Mr Adegboyega Oyetola, has said that the introduction of riders’ jackets and identification tags for commercial motorcycle operators in the State is an attempt to sanitise the business sector for the general safety of citizens and the sanctity of transport business.
While launching the Osun State Okada riders jackets and identification tags, on Wednesday, Oyetola lauded commercial motorcycle operators as critical players and contributors to the socio-economic development of the State.
He further said: “As you are all aware, hoodlums and undesirable elements have taken advantage of the unregulated nature of your activities to engage in unwholesome activities such as robbery, kidnapping and pick-pocketing, this giving your job a bad name and image.
“Non-regulation of your activities has also brought in unlicensed and unskilled people into your fold who get involved in needless accidents and cause needless deaths and maiming daily across the State. Your members are not spared from some of these needless tragedies.
“Today’s launching is a vote for our collective safety and security. It is a way of restoring your image as responsible omoluabi and educated gentlemen. It is a step towards keeping you and your loved ones – your wife, your son, your daughter, your parents, and other members of your family, safe.”
In his welcome remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Works and Transport, Engr. Hussein Olatoke Olaniyan described the initiative of the government as one that is geared toward the safety and security of the people of Osun.
According to Olaniyan: “The significance of today’s epoch-making event is underscored by the imperativeness of its social, security, safety, administrative and financial importance to the State of Osun.
“The Rider’s Unique Code printed on the jacket and ID card comprises the rider’s union, local government of operation and code number.
“The State Government of Osun shall make the portal accessible to top security operatives, FRSC Zonal and Unit Commanders, top government functionaries and senior field staff of O’TRAM (Osun State Traffic Managers) for effective monitoring and regulation. These bodies in collaboration with the task force set up by OSCOMORUN will enforce the use of the Riders’ jackets and ID cards.”
Olaniyan also warned of the danger of patronising okada and Keke Napep operators who do not wear their Rider’s jackets and ID cards or who ply the roads with unregistered motorcycles.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Osun State Commercial Motorcycle Riders Union of Nigeria (OSCOMORUN), Ismail Tiamiyu, lauded the administration of Governor Oyetola for the initiative, describing it as a security measure that is necessary for the identification of the real operators from the mischief-makers.
