Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has initiated the distribution of 15,000 free reflective jackets to commercial motorcycle riders in the state. The governor emphasized the importance of the exercise in ensuring the safety and security of all citizens in Oyo State. He highlighted that enhancing the security of lives and property is a key strategic pillar in the roadmap for sustainable development from 2023 to 2027.
Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Musibau Babatunde, represented the governor at the ceremony organized by the Management Information Centre at the Western Hall, Secretariat in Ibadan. Governor Makinde stressed that the distribution of reflective jackets aims to curb criminal activities perpetrated by some motorcycle riders disguising as commercial riders.
The reflective jackets provided for free have unique identifiers and barcodes, with each commercial motorcycle rider registered with the state Health Insurance Agency. The governor expressed the intention to closely monitor and evaluate the first phase of the distribution to assess compliance levels. Non-compliance to wearing reflective jackets will be punishable. The governor reminded attendees of the administration’s commitment to the security of lives and property.
The reflective jackets, equipped with unique identifiers and barcodes linked to health insurance, serve as a tool to monitor the activities of commercial motorcycle riders. By scanning the identifier, one can access the identity of the specific rider. Governor Makinde encouraged law enforcement agencies to enforce compliance with the initiative, and riders not wearing the jackets are to be challenged.
The governor also highlighted collaboration with stakeholders and the leadership of different motorcycle associations in the state to promote the initiative. He emphasized that after the initial distribution, an evaluation would determine if additional jackets are needed and whether there will be monetary charges for future distributions.
In goodwill messages, the Commissioner for Information and Civic Orientation, Dotun Oyelade, and the Chairman of the State Traffic Management Agency, Adesagba Adekola, acknowledged the economic impact of motorcycle riders in the state. They urged riders to adhere to traffic rules and laws, emphasizing the government’s commitment to enforcing the rule of law on defaulters.