The Commercial National Okada Riders Union has voiced its concerns regarding the government’s delay in passing legislation to legalise their operations, which they say is negatively impacting their livelihoods. The riders argue that the lack of clear regulations has made them vulnerable to frequent police harassment and arrests, discouraging many from working freely.
The proposed legislation is expected to establish regulations for commercial motorcycle operations and enforce safety standards across the country. In an interview with Citi News on Sunday, October 5, 2025, the President of the Union, Mohammed Tijani, highlighted that many riders are losing income due to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding their work.
“The current President promised that if he wins, he would legalise our jobs, but that has not happened yet. The pressure on us is unbearable. The riders are crying. The little income they earn to feed their families or continue their education is being taken away through police harassment,” he lamented.,”
he lamented.
He added that despite fulfilling all legal requirements, including possessing valid licences and roadworthy certificates, some police officers still find ways to extort riders.
You are required to have your licence and roadworthy certificate before you can ride. But when you are stopped by the police and you show them these documents, they still insist on going to the DVLA to verify if they are genuine. That’s unfair. And when you are arrested, you can’t go to their offices empty-handed, or you won’t get your motorbike back,” Mr. Tijani alleged.
Source: Naa Kwaamah Siaw-Marfo
