The government of Oyo state has invented a QR code-embedded jacket for all Okada riders within the state, in a bid to curb criminal activities involving unregistered operators.
Contained in a statement by the Chairman of the state Traffic Management Authority, Adekoya Adesagba, in Ibadan, on Saturday, all motorcycle operators in the state must wear their jacket or cease operation.
The state government urging residents not to patronize any rider who does not have the jacket on –vowed to prosecute and bar any commercial motorcycle rider operating without it.
The chairman explaining the need for the invention stated that, the surge in armed robbery with unmarked motorcycles needed to be curtailed.
He said; “A kidnapping attempt was foiled after locals reported suspicious riders without QR jackets on the UI-Agbowo Axis.
“OYRTMA urges residents to patronise only Okada riders with these official jackets. The benefits include real-time rider verification, crime prevention, emergency tracking, and increased passenger trust.
“Daily raids and impoundment of non-compliant motorcycles. Fines and possible prosecution for violators
“The government assures that this policy is for the safety of all residents, and defaulters will be barred from operating on the state roads.
“The directive, reinforced by the Office of the Governor through the Senior Special Assistant on ICT & E-Governance, Adebayo Akande mandated OYRTMA to intensify enforcement and public awareness campaigns to ensure compliance.
“The policy, introduced in November 2023, requires Okada and tricycle operators to register under the State Residents’ Registration Scheme.
“Despite initial provisions of these free jackets, compliance has remained low, emboldening criminals, and leading to increased Okada-related crimes.”
He further reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing security in the state as he pledged that maximum attention would be paid to the effect of the new development.
Meanwhile, the QR code embedded jacket when scanned by NEWSMAXNG, presented full details of the rider which aligns with the statement of the chairman and seems like a great development.
