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Abia State Govt Begins Enforcement of Okada Ban in Umuahia, Aba and Ohafia, Introduces Registration and Security Measures
Abia State Govt Begins Enforcement of Okada Ban in Umuahia, Aba and Ohafia, Introduces Registration and Security Measures
The Abia State Government (ABSG) has commenced the comprehensive enforcement of the ban on the operations of commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, in specified areas of Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia as part of efforts to strengthen security and improve public safety across the state.
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The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Tuesday while briefing journalists at the Government House, Umuahia, on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting chaired by state Governor, Dr. Alex Otti.
According to the Commissioner, the enforcement of the policy is aimed at ensuring better regulation of motorcycle operations, improving security surveillance, and creating a safer environment for residents.
He explained that following the commencement of the ban, any motorcycle operator found within the restricted zones would face immediate enforcement action.
By this ban, all motorcycles plying the state roads whether for commercial or private use or for business purposes such as courier and delivery services must be registered.
“This is in line with Abia’s initiative on integration of all commercial vehicles including motorcycles which commenced over 18 months ago.
“The scope of this initiative has now been expanded to include the compulsory registration of all motorcycles plying our roads.
“The Abia state Harmonzed Task Force will enforce the ban in conjunction with security agencies in the state.
“The fine of penalty for any defaultting motorcycle rider shall be 50,000 Naira, payable within 30 days,“ Prince Kanu stated.
The Commissioner further revealed that the state government has designated loading bays in Aba, Umuahia, and Ohafia where motorcycles impounded during enforcement operations would be kept.
He added that the Abia State Board of Internal Revenue would maintain a comprehensive database of all registered motorcycles to enhance monitoring and accountability.
To support easy identification, Prince Kanu announced that riders would be issued colour-coded reflective jackets based on their senatorial districts, alongside unique local government identification numbers.
He stressed that motorcycles registered for courier and delivery services would not be allowed to carry passengers under any circumstance.
“There shall be no exemptions to this rule Every registered rider must wear the approved colour-coded vest which will be made available within one week of this announcement,“ Prince Kanu stated.
Prince Kanu explained that while the decision to restrict motorcycle operations was difficult, it was taken in the overall interest of the people of Abia State.
“We understand the temporary inconveniences it may cause, but the safety and security of Abians remain paramount,
“Government is already considering alternative transportation arrangements to cushion the effects of the ban on residents and operators,“ Prince Kanu stated.
He noted that a comprehensive list of restricted routes would be released through various media platforms and transport unions, while a special stakeholder engagement team would continue public enlightenment campaigns across the state.
Also speaking, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Navy Commander MacDonald Uba (rtd.), said the registration and colour-coding system would strengthen security monitoring, accountability, and proper identification of motorcycle operators.
Commander Uba urged residents to see the policy as a proactive security measure designed to protect lives and property rather than a temporary inconvenience.
“The primary responsibility of any government is the safety and security of its people. Governor Alex Otti is taking proactive steps to prevent the security challenges experienced in several other states from taking root in Abia.
“We appeal to our people to bear with the temporary inconvenience because the overriding public interest is far more important.” Uba noted.
Contributing, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr. Ferdinand Ekeoma, explained that the restriction of motorcycle operations was driven by security considerations.
He recalled that the ban on Okada operations was not new, noting that a similar measure was introduced by the administration of Chief T.A. Orji, and emphasized that the current policy is part of the government’s broader strategy to safeguar
d lives and maintain security in Abia State.
