Insecurity: Kwara expresses concern over influx of unknown Okada riders

The Kwara State government has raised alarm over a surge in unidentified commercial motorcycle operators entering the state, warning that this trend poses a significant security risk. Commissioner for Transportation, Aliyu Korasabi, highlighted the concern during an emergency security meeting in Ilorin.

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We are witnessing an increasing influx of unidentified motorcycle operators into Kwara at a time when some communities are grappling with security challenges. This development requires urgent attention from all stakeholders.

Korasabi urged transport union leaders to enforce compliance with the ongoing Kwara State Residents Registration exercise. He stated that capturing data from motorcycle and tricycle operators is crucial for strengthening the state's security architecture. This initiative aims to help security agencies differentiate legitimate transport workers from criminals who might disguise themselves as riders.

"We are witnessing an increasing influx of unidentified motorcycle operators into Kwara at a time when some communities are grappling with security challenges. This development requires urgent attention from all stakeholders," Korasabi said. He added that the registration exercise will provide credible data to assist security agencies in identifying legitimate operators and isolating criminal elements.

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The residents’ registration exercise will provide credible data that will assist security agencies in identifying legitimate operators and isolating criminal elements who may be hiding under the guise of commercial transportation activities.

The commissioner stressed that safeguarding lives and property is a collective responsibility, not solely for security agencies. He commended the existing cordial relationship between transport unions and the state government, urging continued cooperation as security efforts intensify.

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As bona fide citizens of Kwara State, we must not leave issues of security solely to government security agencies. Security is a collective responsibility that must be taken seriously and addressed decisively.