Okada Riders Vow Discipline After Legalization

The Okada Riders Association of Ghana has vowed to enforce strict discipline among its members following the passage of the Road Traffic Amendment Bill, 2025, which legalizes commercial motorcycle and tricycle operations nationwide.

Solomon Akpanaba, the Public Relations Officer of the association, stated that the group is prepared to tackle public concerns regarding reckless riding once the sector is fully regulated. He acknowledged that disregard for traffic laws by some riders has been a significant source of complaint.

“It is a challenge to us. Once the system is regularised, we know these are the complaints Ghanaians have against us, and these are genuine complaints. We see them happening,” Akpanaba said in an interview on December 12.

According to the new law, rider unions will play a crucial role in maintaining order, with their leaders empowered to punish members who violate traffic regulations. Akpanaba expressed confidence in the unions’ ability to enforce discipline.

“We are very sure that if we are given the mandate to discipline them, as they are asked to work under unions, their leaders will make discipline their key mandate and ensure order among members,” he stated.

He further explained that consistent breaches of regulations could lead to severe consequences for riders, including suspension or expulsion from their respective unions. “Failure to adhere to the rules and regulations we give them could mean asking them to stay home, sacking them from the station, or removing them entirely from the union,” Akpanaba added.

The Road Traffic Amendment Bill, 2025, is anticipated to improve road safety, streamline transport operations, and generate employment, particularly for young people. The legislation also introduces stricter rules, such as a lower alcohol limit for drivers and increased penalties for traffic offenses.

Transport Minister Joseph Nikpe Bukari, while presenting the bill in Parliament, emphasized that the reforms aim to sanitize road transport services and promote safer, more efficient road usage across the country.

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