...As Abeokuta South set to start scheme on Wednesday
Following today's condemnation of the suspension on activities of Motorcycle Riders by the Authority of Abeokuta North Local Government, by the leadership of Riders and Owners of Motorcycles, ROMO, over the newly introduced #300 per day insurance ticket fee,the Local Government on Tuesday issued a statement to clarify and prevent wrong narratives to trend.
The statement reads in full"The attention of Abeokuta North Local Government has been drawn to certain misconceptions surrounding the recently introduced daily health insurance scheme for commercial motorcycle (Okada) riders and their passengers. We wish to set the record straight and clarify the true nature of this initiative.
"The Abeokuta North Local Government health insurance scheme is a daily health coverage plan designed to provide immediate medical assistance to both riders and passengers in the event of accidents. This is part of our ongoing commitment to safeguarding lives and promoting the welfare of all who depend on motorcycle transportation within the local government area.
"Contrary to misinformation making the rounds, this scheme does not, in any way, affect the daily ticketing system operated by the recognized Okada riders’ unions — ROMO, ACOMORAN, and AMORAN. Ticketing and union operations remain fully intact and unaffected.
"Participation in this insurance scheme is strictly voluntary. No rider is under any obligation to subscribe, and no penalties exist for those who choose not to participate.
"It is also important to note that key stakeholders within the unions have been fully carried along since November last year. Several meetings and engagements were held to explain the purpose, benefits, and operational details of the insurance scheme, ensuring full transparency and stakeholder buy-in before implementation.
"We urge the public, particularly our hardworking riders, to disregard any false narratives suggesting compulsion or interference with union ticketing. This initiative exists purely to protect lives, provide peace of mind, and ensure quick medical response in emergencies.
"The Abeokuta North Local Government remains committed to the safety, welfare, and economic stability of all its residents."The statement ended.
Meanwhile, briefing journalists during a Press conference held at the Nuj Secretariat hall,Iwe-Irohin, Chairman of Abeokuta North Local Government, Hon.Lanre Oyegbola -Sodipo , alongside his Abeokuta South Counterpart,Hon. Olaniyi Azeez Balogun, explained that the initiative is a daily health coverage plan aimed at providing immediate medical assistance to riders and passengers in the event of accidents.
According to him, the scheme underscores the council’s commitment to safeguarding lives and promoting the welfare of all who rely on motorcycle transportation within the area.
The chairman emphasized that key stakeholders within the transport unions have been fully involved in the process, adding that ticketing and union operations remain unchanged.
Oyegbola-Sodipo however urged riders and the public to disregard misleading narratives and embrace the scheme as a safety net designed to protect hardworking transport operators and their passengers.
Explaining further, the Chairman of Abeokuta South Local Government, Hon. Olaniyi Azeez Balogun said no extra cost was attached to the issuance of the Insurance Card as a registered motorcycle rider is issued the card at the point of registration for the scheme.
He also announced that the Scheme would start at the Local Government on Wednesday.
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