The Ondo State government has prohibited commercial motorcycles, popularly known as ‘Okada’, from operating between 7pm and 6am across the state as part of measures to curb insecurity.
Authorities explained that the restriction was necessary after security agencies reported that motorcycles were frequently used by criminals for kidnappings, armed robberies, and other illicit activities.
The commander of the Amotekun Corps, Adetunji Adeleye, announced the new directive on Wednesday while parading 52 suspected criminals and 18 alleged kidnappers.
Adeleye emphasised that no motorcycle will be allowed to operate all through the night except for security personnel and those on essential services.
The Amotekun Commander also disclosed that motorcyclists in the state have been given a two-week window to register with the state’s security agency and obtain certification to operate legally, adding that the process is free.
“All Okada riders have two weeks to register and collect certified documents of eligibility to use Okada within Ondo States within two weeks. After two weeks, they will be made to pay the Board of Internal Revenue a sum of 20,000 naira for registration. But for the next two weeks from now, it’s going to be free. We want all Okada riders properly documented.
“In the same way, cart pushing in major metropolises is banned. Mandatory registration of gears and regulation of activities of scrap metal are going to be enforced, and prohibition of display of farm produce in unauthorised places.”