2027: Don't be used to cause trouble - INEC, OPC warn okada riders

Okada riders, colloquially referred to as commercial motorcyclists, have been cautioned against being exploited to incite unrest in the immediate lead-up to the 2027 general elections. This caution was articulated during the 2026 day celebration organized by the Oyo chapter of the Amalgamated Commercial Motorcycle, Tricycle Repairers, Owners and Riders Association of Nigeria, ACOMORAN.

Notable speakers at the event included Professor Adeniran Tella, the Resident Electoral Commissioner for Oyo State; Sheikh Mahmud Eleshinmeta, an Islamic cleric; and Comrade Adesina Akinpelu, a leader of the Odua People's Congress.

The event, held at Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Oke Ado, in Ibadan, saw a significant turnout of commercial motorcyclists. Professor Tella, represented by the Head of Information at the commission, Mr Olayiwola Awolowo, sternly advised the union members not to be used as instruments of violence or thuggery before, during, and after the elections. He reiterated, "Let me be clear, do not allow yourselves to be used as instrument of violence or thuggery."

The Nigeria Police Force has also issued a warning, stating that the law will be rigorously enforced against any individual, regardless of their status, who attempts to undermine public peace or engages in criminal activities ahead of, during, or after the elections. Tella specifically charged every ACOMORAN member to abstain from thuggery and political violence.

He also urged them to refrain from transporting weapons, cash for vote-buying, or individuals intent on disrupting the polls, emphasizing that their vehicle is a means of livelihood, not a tool for destruction.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has likewise cautioned transport unions against partisanship, especially when involved in election logistics. While individuals are free to support a candidate of their choice, the union's infrastructure must not be manipulated to favor one political party over another. INEC implores the union to support its logistics, as the transport sector plays a crucial role in the movement of election materials and personnel.

Sheikh Eleshinmeta, in his address, also cautioned the union members against the consumption of hard drugs, stressing that success is not determined by drug use. He urged them to spend their wealth prudently and to maintain discipline in their personal lives. Comrade Akinpelu echoed similar sentiments, urging the union members not to be exploited to cause confusion in the state, stating, "Don't let them use you."

In his welcome address, the Chairman of the union, Olugbode, explained that the program was designed to educate union members against social vices, aiming to ensure a peaceful electoral process.