The Imo State Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Emeka Okoronkwo, has reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to maintaining a high level of security in the implementation of its programs and policies.
The Commissioner made this known during a one-day interactive engagement with members of the Imo State Motorcyclists Association (Okada Riders), World Bank Unit.
Declaring the event open, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Mrs. Moneme Judith-Fred, who represented the Commissioner, emphasized the need for proper identification of all motorcycle operators in the state to ensure the safety and security of passengers in their daily operations.
She noted that recent reports have highlighted the need for better understanding of the operations of Okada riders, their challenges, and the level of safety provided to passengers.
Mrs. Judith-Fred further disclosed that the state government has approved and mandated a comprehensive bio-data capturing exercise for all motorcycle operators. This initiative, she explained, will enable the government to effectively monitor their activities. The collected data will also be shared with relevant security agencies to enhance surveillance and ensure safer operations across the state.
Also speaking, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of New Owerri Division, CSP Safiyanu Gwarzo, who represented the Commissioner of Police, delivered a goodwill message on behalf of the Inspector General of Police through the state command. He stressed the importance of proper regulation and engagement of motorcycle operators to promote safer and more organized operations.
CSP Gwarzo described the regulatory measures as necessary for legitimate business operations and urged Okada riders to comply with restrictions in prohibited areas. He further advised operators to remain law-abiding and cooperate with government authorities, noting that identifying and reporting bad elements within their ranks would help improve the sector.
Earlier in his remarks, the State Chairman of the Motorcyclists Association, Comrade Gabriel Uche, welcomed officials of the Ministry of Transport and the Nigeria Police. He expressed confidence that the engagement would yield positive results and benefit all stakeholders in the sector.
Comrade Uche also commended the current leadership of the Ministry of Transport under Hon. Emeka Okoronkwo for introducing innovation, transformation, and transparency in the transport sector.
Some of the motorcycle operators who spoke at the event appreciated the initiative, describing it as timely and necessary for improving safety and professionalism in their operations.
