Ghanaians Blast Transport Minister Over His New Directive on Okada Business

Transport Minister Joseph Bukari Nikpe’s recent statement on legalizing Okada and tricycle transport has sparked a fierce national debate, with many Ghanaians expressing outrage and skepticism. His announcement, made during a media engagement with GHOne TV, has reignited the long-standing controversy surrounding commercial two- and three-wheel transport in the country.

He declared, “We assured Ghanaians during our campaign that we would legalize and regulate the commercial use of motorcycles and tricycles. These vehicles are already part of our transport system, but they operate without clear legal guidelines. That’s why we’re initiating this process.”

The statement has met strong resistance. Critics argue that legitimizing Okada and tricycles will only worsen Ghana’s road safety crisis. Some citizens have appealed to former President John Mahama to oppose the plan, warning that it could lead to urban chaos.

Concerns over public safety have dominated reactions, with many fearing Ghana could follow the path of countries where motorcycle transport has become synonymous with accidents and disorder. One commenter lamented, “Soon, Ghana will be like Somalia or South Sudan. This is not the way forward. Modern countries don’t allow Okada and Pragya in their cities—look at Rwanda!”

Yet, others are calling out the ruling NPP for being inconsistent. While the party has officially resisted the move to legalize Okada, several of its Municipal and District Chief Executives have distributed motorcycles and tricycles to party members for commercial use. “How can the NPP say they’re against Okada, yet their local leaders are empowering riders with these same vehicles? They even promised cars to Okada riders—what happened to that?” a critic said.

As debate intensifies, the government faces increasing pressure to clarify its stance and ensure that any policy decision strikes a balance between economic empowerment and public safety.

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