Niger Motorcycle operators urge govt to lift ban on operation

The Motorcycle Operators Union of Nigeria (MOUN), Niger State chapter, has made an appeal to the state government to reconsider the ban imposed on its members and the restrictions on specific routes.

Addressing journalists during the inauguration of new officials at the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Secretariat in Minna, Shafi’i Maishara, the Chairman of MOUN, highlighted that the union, as an affiliate of the NLC, is committed to ensuring that its members adhere to the law.

Maishara emphasized that the ban on motorcycle operators, commonly known as Okada, has adversely affected the livelihoods of many households that depend on this occupation. He urged the state government to review the ban and the restrictions imposed on certain streets and roads.

During the inauguration, chairmen and secretaries were sworn in for the 35 branches of the union spread across the 25 local government areas of the state.

Maishara assured that the union would involve other sister unions in the state in various activities such as seminars and sensitization programs to achieve common objectives. He expressed gratitude to the Niger State Police Command and other security agencies for their collaboration, pledging the union’s loyalty.

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Acknowledging the existence of similar unions registered under the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), Maishara stressed the importance of unity and collaboration among these unions. He revealed plans for future seminars to educate motorcyclists on traffic rules, respect for other road users, and the maintenance of law and order during their operations.

Maintaining that the ban on Okada in some local councils of the state remains in effect due to the actions of individuals falsely claiming to be MOUN members, he assured that the union would train its members in information gathering to assist security agencies in curbing crimes. Maishara underscored the union’s responsibility to regulate the activities of Okada riders to ensure public safety and the well-being of other road users.