Commercial motorcyclists (okada riders), who conceal their identities by masking their faces while operating within Jos and Bukuru metropolis have opened up on the reasons why they adopt the style.
Penultimate Monday, Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang ordered a clampdown on commercial motorcyclists who use masks while operating in the state.
Speaking on the issue, some of the okada riders who cover their faces said it was not meant for bad intentions.
Abdullahi Ibrahim, a commercial cyclist who wears a mask, said “I wear the mask because of the wind that blows when I am riding the motorcycle. It is not good for my health, and if I continue to ride without the masks, it will cause airborne disease because we inhale all sorts of dirty things along the roads. So, I don’t wear it for any other purpose but to protect myself against disease. During cold weather, it is not easy for me. I have to cover my mouth and nose to protect my health.”
Audu Musa, a rider who wears the mask, also told Daily Trust that he wears the mask for good intention and not for any bad motive.
He said “I am a resident of Jos. I don’t want people who know me to recognise my face while operating as an okada rider. I feel shy when my associates and neighbours see me doing okada service. The only way to hide my face is to cover it with a mask. I don’t feel comfortable if those who know me see me doing okada. That is why I cover my face with masks. If I carry a passenger who knows me, the person will not recognise me because my face is covered. I don’t cover my face for any evil reason.”
Governor Mutfwang had ordered a clampdown on commercial motorcyclists who conceal their identities by masking their faces while operating within Jos and Bukuru metropolis.
The governor’s directive followed reports that such riders were flooding the two cities, raising serious security concerns. He described their presence as a potential threat to public safety.
He made the announcement while receiving members of the Plateau State Muslim Ummah on a Sallah homage at the Government House in Rayfield, Jos.
According to him, the activities of these masked riders must be curbed to prevent a deterioration of the security situation. “We have received reports that there are okada riders who operate in Jos and Bukuru while covering their faces during operation, leaving only their eyes visible.
“For this reason, I had meetings with security agencies. From today, I have directed security agencies to arrest any okada rider seen covering their face while operating and to investigate them, as these riders seem to be troublemakers.
“I learned that those who cover their faces don’t even know Jos, yet people ignorantly patronize them. This is surprising because you don’t see their faces, yet you ride with them. Therefore, I urge you to take serious steps—warn your kids, wives and others not to patronize them. People should take caution,” he added.
Majority of us do not wear masks – Other riders react
Some Okada riders have expressed concern over the sweeping nature of the crackdown, acknowledging the governor’s intention to bolster security. However, they stressed that many law-abiding riders would be adversely affected.
Musa Isa, an okada rider, said: “I understand the governor’s restriction on motorcycles, specifically targeting riders who cover their faces and noses. While we support the government’s effort to enhance security, we urge them to consider the livelihoods of riders who rely solely on okada services. The ban affects many innocent riders, not just those with malicious intentions. We plead with the government to reconsider the restriction and explore alternatives that balance security concerns with our needs.”
Another rider, Muhammad Nasir, added: “It’s a good decision, but it shouldn’t be generalized, as there are innocent riders among us who wear masks. This is our livelihood. If asked to stop covering our faces and noses, we’ll comply. We wear masks primarily for protection against infections. We’re pleading with the government to consider our situation and allow us to continue our business without masks if that’s the requirement. If banned, many of us will struggle to survive. We urge the government to find alternative solutions that maintain security without destroying our means of livelihood.
Our fear – Residents
Residents who patronise okada riders have expressed divergent views over the decision.
While some residents expressed support for the governor’s decision, citing increasing insecurity, incidents of armed robbery, and the threat of kidnapping, others say they usually feel uncomfortable when encountering masked riders.
However, they called for caution and warned against indiscriminate profiling. They argued that many innocent riders rely on okada business for their daily income and should not be unfairly targeted.
Muhammad Buhari, a resident, said: “Yes, it’s a good decision. Sometimes, when patronising an okada rider, I feel uneasy when the rider doesn’t know the location, and many cover their faces with masks. It is unsettling when you don’t know who you are dealing with, especially if something unusual happens. The governor’s idea to stop masked riders is welcome.
“I understand some riders are just trying to hustle for a living, but hiding their faces raises suspicions. Why should someone earning an honest living cover their face? It’s a valid question. A better approach would be for the government to register okada riders, providing identification and accountability. This way, riders can be traced if incidents occur. Personally, I prefer avoiding masked riders when possible, opting for other transportation means,” Buhari added.
Another resident, Sunusi Murtala, said: “I am an okada patron. I sometimes feel uneasy not knowing the rider’s identity or destination. For security reasons, it’s essential to be cautious. I think the ban on masked riders is a good idea—it enhances security. However, considering that some riders rely solely on okada services for income, the government should provide alternative support or solutions to help them sustain their livelihood.”
Peter Azi also praised the move: “The governor’s decision is very apt. I always look carefully before hopping on a bike. Anybody who masks himself is a potential suspect. Governor Mutfwang is very serious about the security of Plateau State. I want to advise the security agencies to implement the law to the latter.”
Joseph Adudu, a resident also expressed fear over those wearing the masks. He said “The Governor’s submission is apt and significant. No sane or rational person will board any mode of transportation with the identity of the driver or rider concealed. It will amount to height of recklessness and insensitivity for anybody to embark on this kind of voyage. We must all join hands to ensure that the ban on the activities of Okada activities in Jos and Bukuru is fully adhered to.”
Security agencies react to order
Hours after the governor’s directive, security agencies, particularly the police, swung into action. Daily Trust’s correspondent observed police officers patrolling major roads, including Bauchi Road, Katako Junction, Farin Gada and Adetayo Junction.
During the operation, several motorcycles—some privately owned—were confiscated. The crackdown, which extended to Tuesday and Wednesday, had a noticeable impact, forcing many okada riders off the streets out of fear of arrest.
Over 100 motorcycles seized – Plateau commissioner
Plateau State’s Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Jatau Davou Gyang, has reaffirmed the motorcycle ban in Jos-Bukuru, citing long-standing security concerns.
“Over 100 motorcycles have been seized due to their use for criminal activities. The ban targets commercial motorcycles, not private riders with proper safety gear,” he said.
Davou emphasised government support through alternatives like tricycles, metro buses, and youth empowerment programmes, adding that exemptions exist for couriers and security agents. Officials urged the public to support reforms aimed at safer, organised urban living, as new transport systems and agricultural initiatives provide legal means of livelihood.
