Commercial motorcyclists in Ikom embark on compulsory prayers, fasting

Commercial motorcyclists, commonly known as Okada riders, in Ikom Town, Cross River State, have begun a compulsory one-day fast, strictly enforced by their association's officials. The fast, typically held once a week, aims to unite the riders and prevent incidents such as accidents and robberies. Maxwell Nsan, a 40-year-old Okada rider, explained that the weekly fast is a routine and that the riders convene at a designated location for prayer while fasting.

During this period, no Okada rider should be seen riding on the road with passengers, or they face severe penalties. Nsan also noted that they have observed a decrease in negative incidents since implementing the weekly fast. The Deputy Police Officer (DPO) of Ikom Town, CSP Abdulrahman Lagbe, and the Chairman of Ikom LGA, Pastor Mercy Nsor, confirmed the reduction in criminal activities in the area due to the fast's positive impact.

They emphasized that ongoing prayers will continue to aid in crime reduction efforts. Both officials stressed the importance of relying on God and prayers for security, acknowledging that human efforts alone cannot guarantee success.