The Ondo State government has convened a meeting with leaders of commercial motorcycle operators, widely known as ‘okada’ riders, to enforce the state’s ban on night-time riding and the prohibition of face coverings while on motorcycles.
Union heads from across the state attended the meeting to discuss strategies for compliance, and to support Amotekun operatives following successes recorded across all 18 local government areas.
It was said that the directives are part of broader measures to prevent criminal activities carried out under darkness by individuals concealing their identities on motorcycles.
They called on union leaders to ensure their members follow the new regulations.
Speaking after the meeting, the Commander of Amotekun in Ondo State, Akogun Adetunji Adeleye, explained the reasons behind the night riding ban.
He said intelligence reports revealed that many criminal acts were being carried out at night using motorcycles, making it difficult for security personnel to distinguish between legitimate riders and criminals.
Adeleye stressed that cooperation from the motorcycle unions was crucial for the policy’s success.
He added that a new registration exercise for all legitimate riders would commence next Monday, and any operator without proper documentation after a two-week grace period would face penalties.
He further announced that riders would no longer be allowed to cover their faces with hoods while operating motorcycles.
Meanwhile, the Special Adviser to the governor on Special Duties and Strategies, Hon. Gani Mohammed, urged residents to support the initiative, while Hon. Tomide Akinribido, Chairman of the Ondo State Internal Revenue Service and State IT Agency, warned that unregistered riders would lose the right to operate in the state.