In a sweeping move to tackle rising security concerns and fraudulent activities within Ogun State’s informal transport sector, the Chairmen of the Commercial Motorcycle (Okada) Riders Associations has announced a bold digital transformation aimed at revolutionizing rider accountability and public safety.
Speaking on behalf of the Chairmen, Kayode Showunmi, said the decision was arrived at during a high-profile stakeholders meeting at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, saying the crackdown follows increased public concern over rider-related crimes, including kidnappings and parcel theft.
He revealed that 80% of Okada’s riders would now be required to enroll in a fully digitized Unique Identification System. Noting, it was the initiative, developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Transportation and Security agencies in the State.
In his address, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transportation, Alhaji Olufodun Moibi, who represented the MoT, welcomed the initiative and advised the union leaders to make it clear to their members that the scheme was a union riders’ registration scheme demanded by the security agencies and not a ‘riders’ permit,’ which is the preserve prerogative of the government.
In his presentation to stakeholders, the Consultant, Commercial Motorcycle Rider Identification Scheme (COMORIS), Adebanjo Juwon, said, the launch of a new digital identification system aimed at enhancing rider security and accountability. Saying that each rider would receive a unique ID number, with data securely stored in the cloud and verified through biometric checks.
He added that the company’s operational system is integrated with Nigeria’s National Identification Number (NIN) database, allowing security agents quick access to rider information.
“Additionally, reflective jackets with color-coded designs and a 3-digit ID will enable fast, on-the-spot identification by security personnel. These measures aim to strengthen safety and transparency within the association,” the consultant added.
In his contribution, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, AIG Olushola Subair (rtd.), urged the COMORIS consultant to ensure that the registration process involves only state-recognized rider associations, which include the Amalgamated Commercial Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association of Nigeria (ACOMORAN), Riders and Owners of Motorcycle Organization (ROMO), and Articulate Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association (AMORAN).
He also emphasized the importance of coordinating with all allied security agencies for the smooth takeoff of the registration. He appreciated the contributions of all stakeholders during the meeting.
Stakeholders present at the meeting included the Consultant to the Governor on Security, CP Edward Ajogun rtd, Representatives of Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Directorate of Security Service (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE), So-Safe Corps, Special Assistant on Transportation, Adebiyi Abiodun, AMORAN Chairman, Otunba Sokoya Taofeek, ACOMORAN Chairman, Kayode Showunmi, ROMO Chairman, Representative, Comrade Solola Olalekan, MoT, Director, Transport and Commuter Services, and others.
