The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) of Suhum, Madam Lydia Ohenewa Sarah, has raised alarm over rising cases of teenage pregnancies in the municipality, blaming the trend on the activities of motorcycle taxi riders, popularly known as Okada.

In an interview with Accra FM/CTV reporter Apelete Kofi-Michel, the MCE described the situation as “disturbing” and warned that any rider found responsible for impregnating a minor will face arrest and prosecution.

According to Ms Ohenewa Sarah, some riders lure schoolgirls with free rides, instant noodles, and small sums of money, leading to exploitative relationships that result in pregnancies.

She noted that many of the girls are abandoned once pregnant, cutting short their education and jeopardising their future prospects.

The MCE further identified poverty, parental neglect, and broken homes as root causes fueling the crisis.

She stressed that many of the affected girls come from disadvantaged backgrounds, making them more vulnerable to manipulation and financial dependence on the riders.

Calling for a collective response, Ms. Ohenewa Sarah urged parents to prioritise their children’s education as a long-term solution to breaking the cycle of poverty.

She also appealed to security agencies and community stakeholders to step up efforts against drug abuse, which she described as another major threat to the youth in Suhum.