Oyo enforces QR code jacket policy for Okada riders
By Adejayan Gbenga –
The Oyo State Government has announced the enforcement of a QR code-embedded jacket policy for commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as Okada riders, following a surge in criminal activities involving unregistered operators.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Chairman of the Oyo State Road Traffic Management Authority (OYRTMA), Major Adekoya Adesagba (rtd.), warned that defaulters will be barred from operating on roads within the state.
He explained that the directive, reinforced by the Office of the Governor through the Senior Special Assistant on ICT and E-Governance, Mr. Adebayo Akande, mandates OYRTMA to intensify enforcement and public awareness campaigns to ensure full compliance.
Adesagba noted that the move followed recent robbery incidents in Ibadan, including one where armed robbers on an unmarked motorcycle snatched a trader’s earnings at gunpoint in Bodija Market. Another case involved a passenger being robbed by a fake okada rider in the Challenge area.
He emphasized that the QR code jacket system offers several benefits, including real-time rider verification, crime prevention, emergency tracking, and improved passenger confidence.
The statement outlined enforcement measures such as daily raids, impoundment of non-compliant motorcycles, fines, possible prosecution of violators, and collaboration with security agencies to ensure statewide compliance.
OYRTMA also appealed to residents to patronise only Okada riders wearing the official QR code-embedded jackets for their safety.
The agency encouraged the public to support the campaign by promoting the hashtag #NoBarcodeNoRide on social media to raise awareness.
