The Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Okada Riders Association, Solomon Akpanaba, has issued a stern warning to the government, demanding an immediate reversal of a newly introduced law that restricts commercial motorcycle operations to individuals aged 25 and above.
Speaking during an interview on GHOne TV, Akpanaba criticized the law as unjust, discriminatory, and lacking logical basis. He accused the 13-member committee that drafted the legislation of sidelining key stakeholders, particularly the Okada Riders Association.
“We knew that these things would happen once the 13-member committee did not involve us. They seemed to have lost their logical reasoning in bringing out this ally,” he stated.
Akpanaba questioned why a Ghanaian can be considered mature enough to vote at 18 or become a Member of Parliament at 21, yet not be allowed to operate an Okada until the age of 25. He argued that the decision is not only inconsistent with democratic principles but also undermines the livelihood of thousands of young riders across the country.
“Why must someone who voted for John Mahama at 18 now be told by the same administration to wait until 25 before they can work legally as Okada riders?” he asked, expressing disappointment in the former President, who has previously advocated for Okada legalization.
He demanded that the government explain the rationale behind the age limit, whether scientific, psychological, or otherwise, saying failure to do so would lead to mass protests and legal action.
“If not, we will demonstrate, we will take them to court, we will curse them. Not spiritually, but when it comes to the next election,” he warned.
Akpanaba also rejected any notion that the Okada Riders’ call for the law’s reversal lacks substance, insisting their advocacy is grounded in thorough research and public support.
“They shouldn’t insult our intelligence. We didn’t come here by wearing coats and ties, we brought logic and scientific research. So if they want respect, they should respect us too.”
The Okada Riders Association has called on President Mahama to review the policy immediately, warning that ignoring their concerns could spark nationwide unrest and affect the administration’s credibility among the youth.
