Despite the existing ban on commercial motorcycles in Jos metropolis, some okada riders on Tuesday took to the streets in celebration of Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s decamping ceremony from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as Plateau State prepared to receive Vice President Kashim Shettima for the occasion.
The riders were seen riding and displaying along Hill Station Roundabout through the central bank, chanting solidarity songs and waving party colours in open defiance of the restriction placed on motorcycle operations within the city.
One of the riders, Sani Musa, said the development made him “happy and hopeful,” noting that political changes often come with expectations of better policies.
“Even though okada is banned, today is a special day for us on the Plateau,” he said.
Another rider, Gyang Luka, described the ceremony as a turning point for the state.
“We came out to show happiness because we believe this move will bring development and peace,” he stated while riding with colleagues.
Similarly, Ibrahim Adamu, who joined the display, said the presence of the Vice President shows the importance of Plateau in national politics.
He added that many riders felt compelled to celebrate despite knowing the risks.
The Plateau State Government had banned the use of commercial motorcycles, popularly known as okada, in Jos metropolis several years ago, citing security concerns and the need to curb crime and traffic-related incidents.
Recall that earlier on Monday, the decamping ceremony planning committee, chaired by Ahmed Idris Wase, briefed journalists in Jos on the activities lined up for the event, including security arrangements and the expected attendance of top political figures.
As anticipation builds ahead of the ceremony, the unusual appearance of okada riders on major roads underscores the heightened political excitement in the state, even as authorities are expected to enforce existing regulations.
