Ofankor-Nsawam road: We will not join strike by transport operators on August 21 – Okada riders

Okada Riders Offer Hope. They refuse to Join Transport Strike on Ofankor-Nsawam Road

Okada Riders Bring Relief Amid Planned Strike on Ofankor-Nsawam Road

The Commercial National Motor Riders Union, popularly known as the Okada Riders Union, has assured commuters that its members will not take part in the planned strike by commercial transport operators on August 21, 2025. This strike, which is expected to affect movement along the Ofankor-Nsawam road, has sparked major concerns for travelers who depend on daily public transport services.

According to the Union, while they acknowledge the poor state of the Ofankor-Nsawam stretch, they remain committed to serving as a safe and reliable alternative means of transportation. Their assurance has come as a ray of hope for thousands of passengers who would otherwise be stranded on the day of the strike.

Background to the Strike on Ofankor-Nsawam Road

The strike action by commercial transport operators is being staged in protest over the deteriorating condition of the Ofankor-Nsawam road, which forms part of the vital Accra-Kumasi highway. Work on the road came to a halt months ago following delays in payment to contractors.

Although the Minister of Roads and Highways, Hon. Governs Agbodza, has confirmed that funds have been released, the Chairman of the Contractors Association, Mr. Stephen Kwaku Attatsi, has explained that it will take some time before work resumes fully on the project site.

This delay has left commuters battling daily traffic congestion, vehicle breakdowns, and unsafe road conditions. The frustration of drivers and passengers alike has now pushed commercial operators to declare a strike, putting even more pressure on Ghana’s already struggling transport system.

Okada Riders Distance Themselves from Strike Action

In a press statement issued on August 18, 2025, and signed by the Union’s Secretary, Mr. Akpanaba Solomon, the Okada Riders made it clear that they will not join the strike. The statement emphasized that although Okada riders share in the frustrations of commercial drivers regarding the deplorable nature of the Ofankor-Nsawam road, they cannot legally or practically be part of the industrial action.

The release stated:

“While we regret the appalling state of the Ofankor-Nsawam road, which has gained notoriety across Ghana, we want to assure our members, passengers, and the general public that as a de facto alternative transport group, we are not permitted by law to join the strike action scheduled for Thursday, August 21.”

This declaration has been welcomed by passengers who now see Okada riders as a dependable fallback option should the strike proceed.

Assurance of Safety and Reliable Services on Ofankor-Nsawam Road

The Okada Riders Union further reassured passengers that their services are not only available but also continually improving in terms of safety standards and customer care.

They urged commuters not to panic about the looming strike by transport operators but rather to make use of their services during the disruption. The union highlighted that safety concerns, which have long plagued the Okada industry, are being addressed with stricter discipline, better training for riders, and increased compliance with traffic rules.

According to the Union:

“We want to assure Ghanaians that our services are improved, in terms of safety and other concerns. We remain committed to ensuring that passengers can reach their destinations without fear or difficulty during the strike.”

Even as they distance themselves from the strike, Okada riders expressed solidarity with commercial transport operators in demanding swift action from government. They urged the Ministry of Roads and Highways to ensure that contractors return to site quickly to address the critical state of the Ofankor-Nsawam road.

They also prayed for a resolution that would not only end the strike but also permanently improve conditions for all road users. The Okada Union noted that while their members will continue to provide an alternative service, the long-term solution lies in fixing the deteriorated road network.

Commuters’ Relief Over Okada Riders’ Decision

For many passengers who travel daily between Accra and Kumasi or use the Ofankor-Nsawam road for business, trade, and personal purposes, the Okada riders’ announcement is a welcome relief. Several commuters have voiced their appreciation, saying that without this assurance, they would have been left stranded and possibly unable to attend work, school, or other important engagements.

Transport analysts also point out that this move positions Okada riders as an increasingly essential part of Ghana’s transport ecosystem, particularly in times of crisis. By choosing not to participate in the strike, they have cemented their role as a reliable alternative for commuters.

Looking Ahead

The August 21 strike is expected to highlight the depth of frustration among transport operators regarding Ghana’s road infrastructure. However, the refusal of Okada riders to join the strike brings a measure of stability to the situation.

Their involvement in providing alternative transport services demonstrates the critical need for diverse mobility options in the country. Until the Ofankor-Nsawam road is fixed, commuters will continue to rely heavily on motorcycles as a lifeline for mobility.

Read also: “Drivers’ Ultimatum Over Neglected Nsawam-Pokuase Road Sparks Nationwide Concern”