The Government of Sierra Leone has reinforced its commitment to enforcing the ban on commercial motorcycle (okada) operations in Freetown’s Central Business District (CBD).
The announcement was made by Minister of Internal Affairs, Morie Lengor, during the Ministry of Information and Civic Education’s weekly press briefing.
Minister Lengor warned that both riders and passengers violating the ban will face arrest and prosecution.
He urged the public to comply with the restrictions to avoid legal consequences, emphasizing that enforcement will be strict. Additionally, while the mandatory use of helmets for riders will be upheld, passengers are temporarily exempt due to ongoing health concerns.
The Freetown City Council has also expressed support for the government’s decision. Koma Hassan Kamara, the Council’s Information, Education, and Communication Officer, highlighted that commercial bike riders contribute to congestion, disorder, and rural-urban migration, which has fueled the expansion of informal settlements.
She praised the crackdown and suggested extending similar restrictions to street trading to improve the city’s aesthetics and attract investors.
Ismael Sandy, President of the Bike Riders Union (BRU), acknowledged that the restriction is not new, citing previous bans under former Presidents Ahmad Tejan Kabbah and Ernest Bai Koroma.
He noted that the current administration, under President Julius Maada Bio, has engaged with the union to ensure smoother implementation, minimizing disruption for riders.
The government remains firm on the policy, emphasizing that violators risk penalties, including fines, license suspensions, and imprisonment. Authorities have also pledged to explore sustainable solutions for alternative transportation in Freetown’s CBD.
