The dark side of okada operations: security and safety risks in transport landscape

As Ghana advances toward the legalisation and regulation of commercial motorcycle transportation, commonly referred to as Okada, it is imperative to consider not only the socio-economic benefits but also the significant safety and security concerns associated with the sector.

Okada operations, which have historically been part of the informal transportation industry, have expanded nationwide across both urban and rural areas. Although they play a crucial role in facilitating mobility, they also present intricate challenges that require careful attention.

The negative aspects of Okada operations mainly involve risks to public safety, road discipline, crime prevention, and the wider national security framework.

This constitutes one of the road transportation services characterised by a high incidence of accidents and significant safety concerns. Among the most pressing issues is the alarming frequency of motorcycle-related accidents in Ghana. Data from emergency units and road safety agencies consistently demonstrate that motorcycle collisions lead to a substantial number of fatalities and severe injuries, including fractures, head trauma, and disabilities, which frequently result in permanent impairments.

Motorcycle accidents typically lead to higher fatality rates, primarily attributable to the lack of physical protection. The majority of riders do not utilise safety devices such as helmets. Unlike automobiles, motorcycles lack a protective framework. Consequently, riders and passengers are subjected to the full, direct impact during collisions.

Their riding manoeuvres appear exceedingly perilous, as numerous Okada riders manoeuvre through traffic with weaving, overtaking assertively, riding on the shoulder, and disregarding traffic signals—actions that heighten the potential for accidents. Concerning the deteriorated road conditions impacting motorbikes, it is prudent to refrain from elaboration.

Motorcycles frequently suffer from inadequate lighting, and numerous riders do not utilise reflective gear, rendering them nearly invisible during nighttime conditions. Additionally, hazards such as potholes, uneven surfaces, unpaved roads, and narrow lanes pose increased risks to motorcycles compared to other vehicles.

The strain exerted on the healthcare infrastructure by okada operations is substantial. Medical facilities allocate a greater number of emergency beds for individuals involved in motorcycle accidents. Orthopaedic departments are heavily burdened by fractures and spinal injuries, with the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) experiencing escalating treatment expenses.

The human toll is equally severe, with breadwinners permanently disabled, young people losing limbs, and families pushed into poverty because of lengthy recovery periods. Beyond safety concerns, the security implications of Okada operations are significant. Motorcycles have increasingly become a tool for criminal activities, including snatch-and-run robberies, mobile money attacks, breaking traffic laws to evade police, and hit-and-run crimes. Operators have also been identified as drug and illegal goods transportation.

It is also noteworthy that offenders favour motorcycles for their operations due to their manoeuvrability and speed. Offenders can commit a robbery and swiftly vanish into traffic. Unregistered, improperly registered, or counterfeit number plates on motorcycles lacking proper documentation make identification nearly impossible, as they offer anonymity and diminish traceability.

Indiscipline constitutes a significant adverse trait associated with Okada operations. Numerous riders engage in behaviours such as riding against traffic, incorrectly travelling in the wrong direction, disregarding traffic lights and road signs. Additionally, as previously noted, they fail to wear helmets. Furthermore, Okada riders often overload motorcycles with multiple passengers or heavy cargo. They predominantly utilise pedestrian pavements as riding routes, conducting hazardous manoeuvres in crowded areas.

This situation generally increases the risk to pedestrians. Children, elderly individuals, and street vendors face a heightened probability of being hit by speeding or reckless riders. Traffic congestion sometimes results from operational activities, and erratic riding worsens congestion rather than alleviating it, especially during accidents. When motorcycle riders disregard regulations with minimal consequences, it promotes a culture of lawlessness within the transportation sector.

The level of professionalism and training among Okada riders is exceedingly inadequate. Numerous riders have not received formal instruction; consequently, they lack comprehension of road signs and traffic regulations, leading to the absence of proper licensing or possession of incorrect licence categories. The majority of riders possess minimal or no knowledge on emergency management. In the absence of certified professional training centres, the operations of Okada continue to present significant safety risks.

For numerous individuals, riding is perceived as a necessity rather than a professional occupation. They simply mount a motorcycle from any available source, thereby exacerbating existing issues on our roads. These problems are further compounded by inadequate rider training. Riders often fail to anticipate road hazards; they consistently struggle to accurately evaluate speed and distance, which results in hazardous overtaking manoeuvres.

The Okada enterprise is purportedly linked to a rise in motorcycle theft and black market activities. The growing demand for motorcycles has led to an increase in theft incidents, the expansion of a black market for stolen parts, and cross-border smuggling of stolen motorcycles. Moreover, there has been a notable increase in criminal syndicates utilising unregistered motorcycles for their operations. These developments heighten security concerns and challenge law enforcement efforts.

The large volume of motorbikes, predominantly operated by Okada riders, has significantly contributed to the escalation of environmental and noise pollution, particularly in Accra. Although frequently disregarded, Okada activities also exacerbate noise pollution due to modified exhaust pipes and generate air pollution resulting from inadequately maintained engines. These concerns impact public health and urban environmental management.

The police and other law enforcement agencies are perceived as inadequate in restoring order amidst these unlawful Okada operations. Allegations also suggest that some security personnel possess ownership of certain motorbikes implicated in this illegal trade. Law enforcement officials encounter significant challenges in addressing Okada-related offenses, as riders can readily evade apprehension. Many lack appropriate identification, and densely populated urban neighbourhoods offer concealment opportunities.

Furthermore, the judicial system is already overwhelmed by cases involving accidents, assaults, rider-passenger disputes, and traffic violations. The overall pressure on national institutions is significant.

While Okada operations are vital to Ghana’s transportation network, these adverse safety and security issues must not be overlooked. Increasing accident rates, criminal activities, rider misconduct, inadequate training, and the burden on national systems underscore the urgent necessity for comprehensive regulation, stringent licensing protocols, rider education initiatives, mandatory insurance coverage, enforcement of safety standards, and digital registration alongside oversight.

If Ghana is to successfully legalise Okada, the nation must confront and address these challenges directly. Only then can the sector become both safe and economically viable, rather than a constant threat to public safety and national security.

Nana Sifa Twum, PhD