Some Okada riders are complaining about harassment and alleged extortion from various security services.
Patrick, a young graduate, has been riding an okada (commercial motorcycle) in Accra for over a year. Like many of his colleagues, he relies on the business to make ends meet. Despite the challenges, he takes pride in his work, ensuring he provides a safe and reliable service to his customers.
Many okada riders in parts of Ghana face similar challenges. These okada riders who thronged Media General’s premises on Wednesday, October 8, say they are often stopped and asked to pay bribes or face fines for alleged offences, such as riding without helmets or carrying passengers in excess of the recommended limit.
“You’ll be working from morning to evening, and a police officer can take just 20 minutes to take all your money away from you. Meanwhile, we have families to cater for. What’s happening? They are stealing from us, and we want to ask, is the money going to the government or is it going to their own pockets?” They said.
Regulation 128 of LI 2180 prohibits the use of motorcycles and tricycles for commercial transportation. However, the law has been difficult to enforce, and many okada riders continue to operate in the city.
As the government and security services continue to grapple with the challenges of regulating the okada industry, riders like Patrick are calling for understanding and support.
“We, the youth, are getting frustrated. We are tired of the police extorting money from us. We are pleading with the government to act on our behalf. It’s not helping us. Do they want us to go and steal? We are willing to work with the government to find a solution. But they need to understand our situation and treat us with respect. We are not the enemy.”
They want to work with the authorities to find solutions that will allow them to operate safely and legally.
