By Kayode Olabanji
The Ondo State Government has intensified its enforcement against the use of face masks and other forms of facial concealment by commercial motorcyclists popularly known as Okada riders, with several riders arrested and masks and helmets confiscated across the state.
The ongoing crackdown, which commenced on Monday, is being carried out in all 18 local government areas of the state following a directive aimed at strengthening security and curbing criminal activities.
The development comes on the heels of a strategic meeting convened by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties and Strategy, Mr. Gani Muhammed, with okada riders’ coordinators from across the state.
At the meeting, Mr. Muhammed reiterated the government’s position that no commercial motorcycle rider should wear face masks or any disguise capable of concealing identity while operating within the state.
According to him, such practices pose security risks and could be exploited by criminal elements to evade identification and perpetrate unlawful acts.
He stressed that the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa remains committed to safeguarding lives and property and would not tolerate actions capable of undermining public safety.
Following the meeting, coordinators of commercial motorcycle riders reportedly mobilised across their respective local government areas to monitor compliance with the directive and enforce adherence among riders.
As part of the exercise, several masks used by riders have been confiscated, while some violators were arrested on Monday during enforcement operations.
The government maintained that the exercise is part of broader efforts to strengthen the state’s security architecture and ensure that commercial motorcycle operations are conducted in a manner that promotes transparency, accountability, and public safety.
Residents have been urged to cooperate with security agencies and relevant authorities as the enforcement continues across the state.