INEC Calls on Okada Riders to Avoid Violence Ahead of 2027 Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged commercial motorcyclists, known as Okada riders, to avoid violence and thuggery as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections. This message was delivered on Thursday by Adeniran Tella, the Oyo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, during an event in Ibadan.

The event was held at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium and was organized by the Amalgamated Commercial Tricycle and Motorcycle Owners Repairs and Riders Association of Nigeria. Tella, represented by Olayiwola Awolowo from INEC’s Information Unit, emphasized that riders should not allow themselves to be used for violent purposes.

Tella encouraged the riders to help their passengers obtain their Permanent Voter Cards. He stated, “Your motorcycle or tricycle is a tool of livelihood, not a weapon of destruction.” He also reminded them to remain neutral as a union and not to support any political party during the elections.

He further explained that INEC relies on the transport sector to move election materials and personnel. Riders were asked to conduct themselves professionally to ensure timely and safe delivery of materials to polling units. INEC also called on them to spread messages of peace and responsible voting.

The state Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Abimbola, echoed these sentiments, stating that peaceful conduct by transporters would lead to safer roads and smoother journeys, which in turn would benefit the economy. He encouraged all transporters to see themselves as ambassadors of peace.

Other speakers, including leaders from the Odua People’s Congress and a Muslim cleric, also advised the riders to avoid being used for violence and to conduct their work responsibly. They highlighted the importance of their role in providing essential transportation services to the public.