Motorcycle operators union launches daily ‘check-up dues’ in Delta

The Motorcycle Operators Union of Nigeria (MOUN), Delta State Chapter, has commenced the collection of daily “check-up dues” through the sale of a ₦200 ticket to motorcycle operators across the state.

Speaking at a press conference held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Warri Correspondents’ Chapel, the Union’s Deputy National President, Comrade Julius Oghenewevgba Bobi, announced the formal commencement of operations in Delta State.

Flanked by the National Provost, Monday Ekharenhor, and the Delta State Chairman, Chief Austin Okorare, alongside other state and local government executives, Comrade Bobi explained that the initiative was designed to improve the welfare of riders across the state.

“This money is meant to take care of the riders and ensure their lives become better,” he said.

He disclosed that the Union had officially notified relevant government agencies and obtained acknowledgements authorising it to commence operations.

Comrade Bobi emphasised that unionisation was a constitutional right, warning that “no employer can stop a worker from joining a union”, as doing so constitutes a criminal offence under labour laws.

He urged motorcycle operators to identify with MOUN, describing the organisation as a platform dedicated to the welfare and wellbeing of all Okada riders in Delta State and beyond.

“Among Okada riders, we have graduates who turned to riding due to poverty and unemployment. Through this union, we aim to take our members to the next level of decent living,” he added.

The MOUN leader revealed that part of the daily dues would fund a health insurance scheme in partnership with the Delta State Health Insurance Scheme, led by Dr Isaac Akpoveta.

“From the ₦200 daily ticket, a portion goes towards health insurance worth ₦7,000 per year, covering the rider, spouse, and four children,” he explained.

He further disclosed that the union was finalising plans to acquire 20,000 motorcycles from China, which would be distributed free of charge to registered members who possess valid Union ID cards and driver’s licences.

Comrade Bobi noted that the union had also set up a task force unit to oversee the transparent collection of dues and handle complaints, assuring members that leadership contact details would be readily available.

He added that with MOUN’s establishment, harassment of Okada riders by security agents would be addressed, as the union would now serve as an umbrella body to defend their rights and interests.

According to him, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has granted approval for MOUN’s operations in Delta State, with the Commissioner for Transport duly notified.

Bobi clarified that the daily ticket collection applies only to motorcycle operators, not tricycle (Keke) riders, as they are not members of MOUN.

He also confirmed that the union has developed a comprehensive database of its members, and that the daily ₦200 ticket collection officially commenced on Thursday, 13 November.

“This collection is a nationwide initiative aimed at improving the welfare of motorcycle operators. We have written to all relevant government establishments and received their acknowledgements,” Bobi concluded.

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