Abia Okada Riders Allege Harassment, Appeal to Otti Over Motorcycle Seizures

Commercial motorcycle operators (popularly known as Okada riders) in Abia State have appealed to Governor Alex Otti to intervene over what they described as persistent harassment and the seizure of their motorcycles by enforcement officials.

Speaking on behalf of the affected riders, Mr. Emmanuel Ogbonna said commercial motorcycle operations have not been banned in the state, stressing that riders were only directed to stay off major roads.

According to him, “The government should inform the enforcement agencies that Okada has not been banned in Abia State. We were only instructed not to operate on major roads. We pay ₦350 daily as task fees and ₦6,000 for registration, yet our motorcycles are still being seized.”

Ogbonna further alleged that owners of impounded motorcycles are often compelled to pay between ₦30,000 and ₦40,000 before their motorcycles are released.

The riders said the development has severely affected their means of livelihood, noting that commercial motorcycle transportation remains the primary source of income for many families.

While expressing support for the state’s efforts to maintain law and order, they urged the government to review the activities of enforcement officials to ensure that law-abiding operators are not unfairly targeted.

They also appealed to Governor Otti to investigate the alleged extortion, provide clear operational guidelines for commercial motorcycle operators, and ensure that enforcement measures are implemented fairly and humanely.

According to the riders, addressing their concerns would not only ease the economic hardship faced by operators and their families but also foster a more cordial relationship between transport workers and government enforcement agencies.

By Onyinyechi Ibem, Aba

Related