Government plans to legalise ‘okada’
Some commercial motorbike riders, popularly known as “Okada” riders, in the South Tongu District of the Volta Region are calling on the government to reconsider a provision in the new Legislative Instrument (LI) aimed at regulating their business.
The proposed law, which seeks to amend the existing Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 (Legislative Instrument 2180), stipulates that Okada riders must be at least 25 years old and belong to a recognised union.
However, many young riders are worried that this provision will take away their livelihood.
Atsu Mortey, a 21-year-old Senior High School graduate who has been riding Okada since he finished school at 17, expressed his concerns.
“The okada business is the only job I know how to do, and it has been my source of income since I graduated,” Mr. Mortey said.
He added: “If the government doesn’t reconsider this provision, many of us will be rendered jobless.”
Philip Nyamor, a 23-year-old Junior High School dropout, echoed Mortey’s sentiments. Nyamor, who has been riding Okada for several years, said the business has enabled him to support his younger sister, who is currently studying in the Sogakope Senior High School.
“We urge the government to look at this provision again,” Nyamor said.
He added: “Not all of us have the opportunity to go to school. This is what we do for a living, and we are ready to acquire the necessary licenses and documents. But we plead that the government reconsider the age limit.”
Some riders also expressed concerns that if the age limit is not revised, it could lead to an increase in robbery and social vices in the district.
“A man must hustle,” they said. “We are not asking for a handout, but we want to be given the opportunity to work and provide for our families.”
The riders have appealed to the government to review the provision and consider the impact it will have on their livelihoods. They are willing to comply with other provisions in the legislative instrument but are pleading for a reconsideration of the age limit.
The Ghana News Agency observed that the Okada business has become a vital source of income for many young people in the district.
Many have turned to okada riding as a means of survival, especially those who have dropped out of school or are unable to find formal employment.
The proposed law has sparked a heated debate in the district, with some residents calling for the government to reconsider the age limit provision.
Others at Mepe and Battor in the North Tongu District have argued that the law is necessary to regulate the okada business and improve road safety.
Another resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said: “The government should consider alternative livelihoods for okada riders who may be affected by the new regulations. This will help to mitigate the impact of the law on their livelihoods.”
The Ghana News Agency will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as more information becomes available.
