By Chukwudi Osuji
Imo State Police Command has solicited collaborative partnership and support of all Motorcyclists, otherwise known as Okada Riders, in the state to enhance security and ensure general safety of residents.
The State Commissioner of Police, CP Audu Garba Bosso made the appeal in a strategic meeting with members of the Imo Motorcyclists Association at World Bank, New Owerri, held on Tuesday.
The Imo police boss noted that the meeting was an initiative of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu to strengthen community policing and enhance intelligence-led operations, and also reflected the Command’s commitment to inclusive, grassroots-driven, and people-centered policing across the state.
CP Bosso represented by the DPO, New Owerri Division, CSP Safiyanu Usman Gwarzo urged the Okada riders to avoid conveying suspicious passengers or goods and to ensure the use of helmets, proper number plates, and valid documentation at all times.
He also advised the prompt reporting of unusual movements, suspicious activities, or abandoned items, while encouraging collaboration with Divisional Police Officers within their respective areas.
The CP further stressed that proper identification and profiling of riders will strengthen intelligence sharing, support crime prevention, and improve compliance with existing laws and regulations.
He finally reassured the Imo residents of the command's unwavering commitment to protecting lives and property through proactive policing and strong partnerships; and urged members of the public to remain security-conscious and support the Police with timely and useful information.
Also, the State Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Emeka Okoronkwo, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, disclosed the Imo State Government’s initiative to ensure that all motorcycle riders in the State are properly registered and profiled.
He noted that each registered Okada rider will be issued an identifiable vest and number to enhance accountability, traceability, and security.
In his remark, the State Chairman of Imo Motorcyclists Association, Comrade Uche Gabriel commended the IGP and CP for the initiative and reaffirmed the Association’s readiness to collaborate with the Police through credible information sharing and to remain law abiding.
He reiterated the importance of adherence to registration procedures and the use of approved reflective jackets for safety and visibility.
The meeting had in attendance over 400 Okada riders, top staff of the ministry of Transport, executive members of the Okada Riders Association and officers from the Command and the New Owerri Division including the Command's spokesperson, DSP Henry Okoye.
