Determined to tackle insecurity in the state, Ondo State Government has reinforced the ban on Okada riders, warning that violators will be prosecuted.
Chief Adetunji Adeleye, Ondo State Corps Commander of the State Security Network Agency codenamed Amotekun, made the declaration in Akure.
He said: “In view of the incessant robbery attacks on fuel stations in the state, Mr Governor has re-introduced the ban and prosecution of Okada riders who operate beyond 7pm in the state as from Monday May 31, 2021.
“With the records of robbery attacks in the state which usually occur between 7pm to 9pm, we have spoken with the leadership of the petrol station dealers to know what they are actually facing.
“We have brought back the ban on Okada riders from the hours of 7pm to 6am. As it has become a norm for criminals to disguise as Okada riders robbing filling stations and engaging in other criminal acts.
“Initially, we make defaulters pay N5,000 at the internal revenue office. But now, it is mandatory they face prosecution in the court of law.
“This is because any criminal will see the payment of N5,000 fine as small and pay such with ease.
“In confiscating their machines as well as prosecuting them, the government aims at discouraging the use of night riders in the exception of accredited persons with identification cards.
“Anyone with an identity card will not be arrested as they ride their motorcycles to their respective duty posts. But any rider without an ID card at that particular time will be impounded and prosecuted.
Chairman, Independent Petroleum Marketers, Ondo State chapter, Bayo Olowookere, while expressing his gratitude over the decision of the state government, lauded the move, saying it would guarantee safety of the petrol dealers in the state.
He thanked Governor Akeredolu for his proactive steps in keeping the stations safe
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