By Nkechi Ojukwu
Special Adviser to Imo state Governor,Sen .Hope Uzodinma,
Hon. Frank Onwumere, has raised concerns about the increasing involvement of foreign Okada riders, particularly people from Niger Republic, in criminal activities in Owerri metropolis.
Despite the 18-year ban on Okada operations in the area, these riders continue to defy the law, contributing to rising insecurity .
Onwumere’s efforts to enforce compliance have led to the confiscation of over 51 motorcycles, which were handed over to the Imo State Police Command. However, his actions have sparked controversy, with allegations of bribery and extortion circulating on social media .
Hon. Onwumere, has however, denied these allegations, stating that they were mere falsehood aimed at tarnishing his reputation. He emphasized his commitment to fighting insecurity and urged residents not to patronize motorcycle operators whom he accused of being involved in criminal activities such as robbery, kidnapping, and selling of human parts .
The issue of Okada riders and their involvement in criminal activities is not peculiar to Imo State. In other parts of Nigeria, there have been reports of Okada riders being involved in various forms of crimes There has controversy over allegations by one Promise Chigozie, also known as “Biggy”, accusing Hon. Onwumere, the Special Adviser on Transport Hubs and Illegal Motor Parks, of demanding N100,000 to release seized motorcycles.
Onwumere has however, denied these allegations, claiming that Biggy was fabricating false claims after being denied permission to use his office as a storage site for impounded trucks.
Onwumere also alleged that certain forces within Governor Uzodinma’s administration were working against him, trying to discredit his commitment to enforcing the governor’s policies. This accusation adds a layer of complexity to the situation, suggesting that there may be internal politics at play.
It’s worth noting that the issue of Okada riders and their involvement in criminal activities is a sensitive topic in Imo State. The government has been trying to regulate their activities, but it seems that some individuals are resisting these efforts.
Notwithstanding, Hon Onwumere’s, commitment to fighting insecurity in Imo State is unwavering, despite the controversy surrounding his actions. He has warned Owerri Municipal residents to avoid patronizing motorcycle operators, who he alleged, were involved in criminal activities such as robbery, kidnapping, and other social vices .
To address the insecurity challenge in Imo State, Hon Onwumere is urging citizens to support government efforts and report suspicious activities. This call to action is crucial, as insecurity has been a persistent issue in the state, with incidents of terrorism, kidnapping, and violence reported in various local government areas.
The Imo State government has been working to tackle insecurity, with initiatives such as the Imo Diaspora Group collaborating with the government to foster sustainable development and security in the state.
To effectively combat insecurity, it’s essential for citizens to cooperate with government efforts and report any suspicious activities. By doing so, Imo State can make progress in restoring peace and security for its residents.
