BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU
IN a firm step towards enhancing road safety and reducing fatalities, the Delta State Government has issued a directive mandating the compulsory use of safety helmets by commercial motorcycle operators (popularly known as okada riders) and their passengers within Agbor and its environs, effective May 1.
This was made known by the Director-General Delta State Traffic Management Authority (DESTMA), Hon. Benjamin Okiemute during the sensitization program of the new policy and law of DESTMA in Ika-South and Ika- North East local government areas.
According to Hon. Okiemute, the enforcement was aimed at protecting the lives of commuters who rely on motorcycles as a primary means of transportation in the area.
He emphasized that the helmet mandate applied to both riders and passengers without exception. The directive is part of a broader effort to enforce traffic regulations and minimize head injuries and deaths caused by motorcycle accidents, which have seen a concerning rise in recent months.
“Beginning May 1st, any commercial motorcyclist found operating without a helmet, either for themselves or their passenger, will be arrested and charged before a mobile court, which may result to six months jail term. This is not just about enforcing the law, but about saving lives.” He said.
Hon. Okiemute reminded the people that the state government will no longer tolerate activities by road users that will obstruct the flow of traffic across the area. He highlighted that illegal parking of vehicles, using of cellphones while driving, smoking and drinking, and carrying of toddler in the front seat were all prohibited under the new policy of DESTMA.
The Director-General also stated that trucks offloading goods, can only do that from 7:pm to 6:am, after which officers will have no choice than to cease their vehicle and arrest them. While cautioning motorists, he also called on POS vendors on the street, and those selling items by the road sides, to desist immediately or have their goods seized.
Hon. Okiemute urged DESTMA officers to discharge their duties with honesty and utmost dedication.
