Alhaji Awal Mohammed, a communications team member of the governing New Patriotic Party (NPP), has refuted former President John Mahama’s promise to legalise the okada business as a commercial means of transport.

On the Ghana Yensom morning show, hosted by Otafrigya Kaayire Kwesi Appea-Apreku on Accra100.5 FM, Mr Mohammed highlighted several concerns regarding the former President’s proposal.

According to Mr. Mohammed, many okada riders in Ghana are not citizens but foreigners.

He cited research indicating that 60 to 70 per cent of these riders come from neighbouring countries such as Benin, Mali, and Nigeria.

He argued that legalising their activities would primarily benefit these foreign nationals rather than address the employment needs of Ghanaians.

"Former President Mahama’s quest to legalise okada riding is essentially about providing jobs for foreigners," Mr. Mohammed asserted.

He provided examples of frequent accidents involving okada riders, noting that many of these riders do not speak any Ghanaian language, which further underscores their foreign origins.

Mr Mohammed, who also serves as the Public Relations Officer (PRO) of the Youth Employment Agency (YEA), called on Ghanaians to investigate the backgrounds of Okada riders in their cities.

He expressed concern over the safety and hazardous nature of Okada riding, arguing that it endangers young men and should not be legalized.

"Instead of legalising okada riding, the former President Mahama should focus on creating meaningful and alternative employment opportunities for the youth currently engaged in this risky occupation," Mr. Mohammed suggested.