Petty offenders should be given community service instead of jail – Okada Riders PRO

Public Relations Officer of the Okada Riders Association Solomon Akpanaba has called for minor offenders to receive community service rather than imprisonment, arguing that custodial sentences for petty crimes strain state resources and expose detainees to hardened criminals. Speaking on Morning Starr via Starr FM, Akpanaba questioned the logic of jailing individuals who cannot pay fines for minor road offences such as not wearing a reflective jacket, noting that a 30‑day jail term can follow even when the penalty is only a modest monetary fine. He suggested that alternative punishments like sweeping, gutter cleaning, or roadside weeding would allow offenders to contribute to society while avoiding the stigma of prison life. Akpanaba also warned that incarceration for minor infractions can draw vulnerable persons into contact with serious criminals, potentially worsening their behaviour upon release. He highlighted that the current legislative process was drafted by a 13‑member committee without input from the Okada Riders leadership, stressing that greater stakeholder engagement could resolve many of the concerns raised. The PRO urged authorities to adopt non‑custodial measures, especially community‑service options, to reduce prison overcrowding and fiscal waste.