The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Suhum, Lydia Ohenewa Sarah, has raised serious concern over the sharp increase in teenage pregnancies in the municipality, blaming the situation on the activities of commercial motorcycle riders, popularly known as okada.
In an interview with the media Ohenewa Sarah described the development as alarming and warned that any rider found guilty of impregnating a minor will face arrest and prosecution.
She alleged that many of the riders exploit young girls by luring them with free rides, food such as instant noodles, and small amounts of money, which lead to sexual relationships and unintended pregnancies. According to her, most of these riders abandon the girls once they become pregnant, leaving them vulnerable and disrupting their education.
The MCE further highlighted root causes such as poverty, parental neglect, and broken homes, stressing that many affected girls come from deprived backgrounds and become financially dependent on the riders.
Ohenewa Sarah urged parents to prioritize the education of their children as a means of breaking the cycle of poverty. She also called on security agencies and other stakeholders to step up efforts in addressing drug abuse, which she identified as another major challenge confronting the youth in the municipality.
