COMMERCIAL motorcycle operators commonly known as ‘Okada’ riders are widely utilized across Nigeria, including Benue State. They can easily navigate heavy traffic, access unpaved roads and reach remote areas where standard vehicles and buses cannot access.
HOWEVER, in recent times, ‘Okada’ operators in the state are allegedly infiltrated by some youth from the North whose operations pose security hazards to the already complex security situation in the state.
THESE young adults could be easily identified by their mode of speech, unfamiliarity with the terrain and less charges despite high cost of fuel. They move round the state, particularly Makurdi, the state capital under the guise of ‘Okada’ to study the terrain and later allegedly lead suspected killer herdsmen to the hinterlands of the state.
WE therefore call for proper identification of ‘Okada’ riders in the state. Efforts in the past such as provision of helmets and reflective jackets, registration of ‘Okada riders were steps in the right direction.
BENUE State government should issue identifiable reflective jackets and scan-coded ID cards to commercial motorcycle operators, while the assigned code should be boldly painted or affixed on the motorcycle to help monitoring teams and security agencies verify operators quickly.
BENUE State Motorcycle Operators Association (BEMOA) should device means of tracing and accounting for its members and assist security agents to fish out bad eggs among them.
ALL ‘Okada’ riders operating in the state should endeavor to register with local unions for proper identification.
REGULATING commercial motorcycles in Benue State requires a combined approach of state-level security enforcement and union level compliance.
Authorities and riders should put all hands on deck to give ‘Okada’ operators proper identification for the security and safety of commuters and the state.