By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu
The Motorcycle Operators Union of Nigeria (MOUN) has announced that it will commence full operations in Delta State on Thursday, November 13, with the collection of a daily check-up due of N200 from motorcycle operators across the state.
MOUN’s Deputy National President, Comrade Julius Oghenewevgba Bobi, disclosed this during a press conference on Wednesday at the Secretariat of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Warri Correspondents’ Chapel.
Bobi, who was flanked by the National Provost, Comrade Monday Ekharenhor, and the Delta State Chairman, Chief Austin Okorare, said the dues would be collected through the sale of a daily ticket and would be used to improve the welfare of motorcycle riders.
“This money is to take care of the riders and ensure that their lives become better,” he said, adding that the union had secured the necessary approvals from the Delta State Government and relevant agencies to begin its operations.
He revealed that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori had approved the union’s activities, while the Commissioner for Transport had been duly notified.
Bobi urged motorcycle operators to embrace the union’s activities, saying it was established to protect their interests and enhance their welfare.
“No employer can stop a worker from unionizing; it is a criminal offence under labour laws and our union constitution,” he warned.
According to him, part of the N200 daily contribution will fund a health insurance scheme in partnership with the Delta State Contributory Health Commission headed by Dr. Isaac Akpoveta. “The insurance premium is N7,000 per year, covering the rider, the wife, and four children,” he explained.
He also disclosed that the union had plans to acquire 20,000 motorcycles from China to be distributed free to members with valid identity cards and rider’s licences. “We are insuring them to ensure safety and stability among our members,” he said.
Bobi said a task force unit had been set up to monitor ticket collection and check extortion, assuring that riders would have access to leadership contacts for complaints or emergencies.
He further stated that the emergence of the union would curb harassment of riders by security agencies and provide a unified platform to defend their rights. “Our mission is to make life better for the common Okada rider,” he said.