To tackle rising insecurity, Okada riders launch biometric crackdown in Ogun

Worried by rising security concerns and fraudulent activities within Ogun State’s informal transport sector, the Commercial Motorcycle (Okada) Riders Associations have announced a bold digital transformation aimed at revolutionizing riders’ accountability and public safety.

Speaking on behalf of the chairmen of all affiliated motorcycle riders’ associations yesterday, Kayode Showunmi said the decision was reached during a high-profile stakeholders’ meeting at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta. He stated that the crackdown follows increased public concern over rider-related crimes, including kidnappings and parcel theft.

He revealed that, with this decision, 80 per cent of Okada riders would now be required to enroll in a fully digitized Unique Identification System. He added that the initiative was developed in collaboration with the Ministry of Transportation and security agencies in the state.

In his address, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transportation, Alhaji Olufodun Moibi, who represented the ministry, welcomed the initiative and advised union leaders to make it clear to their members that the scheme was a union riders’ registration scheme mandated by security agencies and not a ‘riders’ permit,’ which is the prerogative of the government.

In his presentation, the consultant for the Commercial Motorcycle Rider Identification Scheme (COMORIS), Adebanjo Juwon, said that with the launch of the new digital identification system aimed at enhancing rider security and accountability, each rider would receive a unique ID number, with data securely stored in the cloud and verified through biometric checks.

He added that the company’s operational system is integrated with the National Identification Number (NIN) database, allowing security agents quick access to riders’ information.

“Additionally, reflective jackets with color-coded designs and a three-digit ID will enable fast, on-the-spot identification by security personnel. These measures aim to strengthen safety and transparency within the association,” the consultant added.

In his contribution, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, AIG Olushola Subair (rtd.), urged the COMORIS consultant to ensure that the registration process involves only state-recognized riders’ associations, including the Amalgamated Commercial Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association of Nigeria (ACOMORAN), Riders and Owners of Motorcycle Organisation (ROMO), and Articulate Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association (AMORAN).

He also emphasized the importance of collaborating with all allied security agencies for the smooth takeoff of the registration. He appreciated the contributions of all stakeholders during the meeting.