The Okada Riders Association of Ghana has emphasized the critical role of training in improving safety within the commercial motorcycle sector. This comes in response to the recent proposal by the Minister of Transport, Joseph Bukari Nikpe, to amend the Road Traffic Regulations, 2012 LI 2180. The proposed amendment seeks to allow only individuals aged 25 and above to operate commercial motorcycles and tricycles as part of the government’s efforts to enhance safety and accountability in the sector.
During an interview on the RadioXYZ morning show, Agya-Wusu, the Public Relations Officer of the Okada Riders Association, Solomon Akpanaba, highlighted that training, rather than age restrictions, should be the focal point for improving safety on the roads.
“We have always maintained that the key to reducing accidents and promoting discipline on the roads is proper rider training. The focus should be on educating and training riders, not imposing age limits,” Akpanaba stressed.
Solomon Akpanaba, P.R.0 Okada Riders Ass
He also expressed strong discontent with the government’s stance, stating that any attempt by the NDC government to legalize the age limit would amount to a betrayal of trust, particularly toward the youth who supported the NDC during their campaign. “The NDC exploited Okada riders to regain power, and it is disheartening to see the same government, which we supported, act in this manner. If they push this agenda, we will take our protest to the streets,” Akpanaba warned.
The Okada Riders Association is now calling for a more comprehensive approach to safety—one that prioritizes rider training over age restrictions—while holding the government accountable for its promises to the youth.S
