By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi
Amid growing concerns over the worsening security situation in the state, the Ondo State Government has banned the operation of commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, between 7 p.m. and 6 a.m.
The restriction was announced by the Commandant of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun, Adetunji Adeleye, during the parade of 70 suspects arrested for various offences across the state.
According to Adeleye, the directive takes immediate effect and applies to all motorcycle operators across the state, except those attached to security agencies and other essential services specifically exempted by the government.
He explained that the decision followed intelligence reports indicating that some criminal activities, including kidnapping and armed robbery, were being carried out with the use of motorcycles, particularly during night hours.
Adeleye further disclosed that all commercial motorcycle operators have been given two weeks to register with the security network agency and obtain certification to operate legally within the state.
The commandant noted that the registration would be free during the two-week window, after which operators would be required to pay ₦20,000 to the state’s Board of Internal Revenue for proper documentation.
He said: “The government of Ondo State has decided that in order to checkmate the nefarious activities of kidnappers, armed robbers and other criminals within the state, there will be a restriction on the use of motorbikes or Okada from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m.
“This comes into effect immediately and all Okada riders have two weeks to register and collect certified documents of eligibility to operate within Ondo State.
“After two weeks, they will be required to pay the sum of ₦20,000 to the Board of Internal Revenue for registration. But for the next two weeks from now, the registration will be free. We want all Okada riders properly documented.”
The security agency also announced additional measures aimed at tightening security and regulating certain activities across the state.
These include a ban on cart pushing in major metropolitan areas, mandatory registration and regulation of scrap metal dealers, as well as a prohibition on the display of farm produce in unauthorised locations.
“In the same way, cart pushing in major metropolises is banned. Mandatory registration of gears and regulation of activities of scrap metal buyers is going to be enforced, and display of farm produce in unauthorised places is prohibited,” Adeleye added.
Speaking on the suspects paraded, the commandant revealed that 18 of the 70 suspects were arrested for alleged involvement in kidnapping-related offences in different parts of the state.
He added that 39 suspects were arrested for offences relating to breach of law and order, while one suspect was apprehended for violating the anti-grazing law, and another for human trafficking.
According to him, 11 other suspects were arrested in connection with court-related matters during operations conducted across the 18 local government areas of the state.
