Gombe not ready to ban Okada business-SSG
By Joshua Danmalam
Secretary to the State Government Prof. Ibrahim Njodi, has said the state doesn’t have intention to ban motorcycle operation in the state, popularly known as ‘Achaba’.
Njodi reiterated government’s commitment to job and wealth creation for the teeming youths in the state.
He made this disclosure when he played host to the State leadership of Okada owners and Riders Association, where he allayed fear of banning the trade in the state.
The SSG said, “Having carefully studied the economic impact of Achaba business and it’s attendant challenges, government resolved to initiate reforms to guarantee the safety of the Achaba riders and their Passengers.”
While appreciating the Association for coming up with strategic reforms to better the trade, he cautioned them to be security conscious considering allegation of criminal involvement of some members.
He also acknowledged their invaluable contribution and support to Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, Government and the All Progressive Congress (APC) assuring that the administration would continue to work towards improving their activities.
Earlier, the State Chairman of the Achaba Riders Association Malam Manu Ibrahim said, they were at the Government House to register their unalloyed support to the government.
Ibrahim also briefed the SSG on the effort of the Association to reform the Achaba business in a manner that would be safe, rewarding and contribute to the state internally Generated Revenue (IGR).
According to him, “Data base have been created to capture all Achaba operators in the State,Membership, Sticker and operating jacket numbers, introduction of leadership at all levels, drugs abuse, accident, emergency, tragic offenders, information and fare control committees as part of the reforms.”
He added that, “With over thirty thousand members across the eleven Local Government in the State, Achaba operators are willing to work with government to ensure that members contribute meaningfully to the development of the state.”
Joshua Danmalam, Information officer, SSG’s office.
