By Sallieu S. Kanu
Yele, Tonkolili District — September 16, 2025: Rising tensions among Okada riders in Yele have sparked urgent calls for intervention from the Ministry of Youth Affairs, following allegations of electoral malpractice within the Sierra Leone Bike Riders Association.
According to sources in the community, a growing number of riders are accusing Ishmael Sandy, National President of the association, of refusing to facilitate free and fair elections. Instead, he is alleged to have imposed an unpopular candidate—known locally as “Obasanjo”—after reportedly receiving substantial financial inducements.
He refused to comment on the allegation when contacted by Premier News on Tuesday.
While these claims remain unverified, local observers warn that the situation is deteriorating rapidly. Reports suggest that the District, Regional, and National executives of the association may be complicit in actions that could provoke unrest among the youth population.
The Local Unit Commander of the Sierra Leone Police in Tonkolili is also alleged to be involved in the controversy. He is accused of using his authority to intimidate opponents of the imposed candidate, an allegation he has denied.
Most Okada riders in Yele have voiced strong support for an alternative candidate, Sheku Kabia, who is widely seen as a grassroots favorite. Riders are demanding that elections be conducted through a transparent and independent process to reflect the will of the majority.
Yele, a town that has enjoyed relative peace over the past seven years, now faces the risk of instability. Local stakeholders, including the Paramount Chief, have expressed concern over the escalating tensions and the potential for violence if the situation is not addressed promptly.
Community leaders and civil society groups are urging the Ministry of Youth Affairs and other relevant authorities to intervene and mediate the dispute before it spirals out of control.
The outcome of this standoff could have broader implications for youth engagement, governance, and peacebuilding efforts in Tonkolili District and beyond.