The National Union of Tricycle Operators Ghana (NUTOG) has commended the government for the swift legalisation of the Okada Bill, describing the move as a major victory for thousands of riders across the country.
Speaking on the development, the Ashanti Regional Chairman of NUTOG, Mr. Seidu Mubarak, said the decision demonstrates the government’s commitment to inclusive governance and responsive leadership.
Mr. Seidu said the legalisation would give the union the authority and opportunity to ensure that riders are law-abiding, stressing that regulation is key to discipline and order within the sector.
He explained that the policy would also create employment opportunities, particularly for the youth, while formalising the operations of motorcycle and tricycle riders across the country.
He urged all members of the union to be law-abiding, noting that the benefits of the legalisation could only be sustained through responsible conduct on the roads.
According to him, discipline among riders is critical to ensuring safety and maintaining the confidence reposed in the association by government and other stakeholders.
As part of measures to strengthen the welfare of members, Mr. Seidu announced that a Welfare Committee would be instituted to cater for the needs of riders, including support during emergencies and difficult times.
He further encouraged all tricycle and motorcycle riders across the country to join the association, saying unity would enhance coordination, accountability, and effective engagement with authorities.
The NUTOG Ashanti Regional Chairman also revealed plans to establish an Education Committee to intensify road safety education to help riders avoid unnecessary accidents on the roads.
He called on the security agencies to support the implementation of the law and avoid unwanted harassment of riders, stressing that enforcement should be fair, professional, and in line with the law.
He praised the National Democratic Congress (NDC) government, describing it as a listening administration delivering on its mandate, and thanked Parliament, the media, and the Ministry of Transport for their roles, while appealing to President John Dramani Mahama to assent to the bill to make it fully operational.
