The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has ordered all commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as Okada riders, to obtain a licence to operate within the metropolis.
Okada Riders In Abuja
The Director in charge of the Directorate of the Road Transport Service (DRTS) of the FCTA, Dr Bello Abdullateef, spoke on Thursday during a media briefing organised by the Presidential Communication Team at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
According to him, Okoda riders must get an operating permit because many of them plying Abuja roads have been involved in various criminal activities, including peddling of hard drugs across the city.
“The menace arising from many Okada riders is not just about traffic violations but also perpetration of crime. Okada is also used to deliver hard drugs across the city.
“It requires a multi sectoral approach to deal with the menace. We are introducing riders certification for those using okada for dispatch activities.
“Therefore, until you are verified by the directorate of road transport service you may not be able to ride a bike across Abuja. We are remodeling the licensing and regulations as well.
“These would be carried out to dissuade the use of Okada. Total ban has been suggested but it sti being considered.
“Some of the contiguous states are already banning. And if we don’t ban it, FCT will be a dumping ground in a few years,” Abdullateef said.
KanyiDaily recalls that Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu had recentlyy imposed a ban on the operations of commercial motorcyclists in 6 Local Government Areas of the State.
