The Motor Riders Association of Ghana has announced its decision to suspend members who participated in a demonstration held at the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO), which followed the arrest and detention of Dennis Miracles Aboagye over an alleged GH¢55 million fraud case.
According to the President of the Association, Mr Mohammed Apambila, the actions of the protesting riders have brought shame to the group and dragged its reputation through the mud.
The protest, which took place yesterday, was mired in controversy after an individual identifying himself as a New Patriotic Party (NPP) supporter claimed he was promised GH¢150 and fuel to join the demonstration at the EOCO premises following the reported arrest of Mr Aboagye at the airport.
The supporter revealed he was at home when colleagues contacted him, urging him to bring his motorbike to join the protest.
Speaking on Nyankonton Mu Nsem on Rainbow Radio 87.5FM, Mr Apambila stated that when the offending riders were interrogated, they had no meaningful explanation to offer leadership.
He added that the Association has repeatedly warned riders against participating in such activities, reminding them that the leadership will not intervene if they find themselves in legal trouble.
“The riders who participated in the exercise would be suspended,” Mr Apambila stated. “They did not inform leadership about the exercise. We have warned them not to entertain such activities because if they do and get caught in any form of trouble, we will not defend them. What they have done has dragged the name of the Association in the mud. The majority of them were our members, while others were not okada riders. But our riders would be suspended for what they did.”
He emphasised that the current state of the okada business is guided by regulations, and members are strictly expected to abide by these guidelines to maintain order.
“We as Okada riders are expected to obey the laws and follow the guidelines that protect our business,” the President added. “Riders cannot participate in activities that can undermine the Association and create problems for us. Those who participate in violent activities will not be spared. They would be sanctioned.”
In a direct warning to the opposition New Patriotic Party and other political parties, Mr Apambila cautioned politicians against exploiting okada riders for selfish political gains.
“To the NPP and other political parties, we want to warn them to stay away from using our members for any violent activities,” he warned.
“Whether you are CPP, NDC, or any party, don’t just come and take riders and use them for activities without official authorisation. We will be forced to sue any group or political party that does that.”
By: Rainbowradioonline.com/Ghana
