Abia State bans commercial motorcyclists in key cities over insecurity

The Abia State Government has imposed a ban on commercial motorcyclists in the metropolitan cities of Aba, Umuahia, and Ohafia, citing prevailing security challenges across the country. The State Harmonised Task Force, in collaboration with security agencies, is empowered to impound any motorcycle found operating within these areas.

According to Information Commissioner Okey Kanu, any impounded motorcycle will incur a N50,000 fine and must be released within 30 days of impoundment. Failure to pay the fine within this period will result in the forfeiture of the motorcycle to the state government. The ban also mandates that all motorcycles, both private and commercial, be registered under the state’s ongoing vehicle enumeration program.

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Any impounded motorcycle would be released only upon payment of a N50,000 fine within 30 days of impoundment. He said that failure to pay within the stipulated period would result in forfeiture of the motorcycle to the Abia State Government.

Private, courier, and delivery motorcycles will be prohibited from carrying passengers under the new regulations. The government stated it is developing measures to cushion the effects of the restriction on commuters and operators. A steering committee will engage stakeholders and the public to ensure proper sensitization and enlightenment on the new policy.

MacDonald Ubah, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, emphasized that the ban is in the overriding public interest of safety. He noted that intelligence reports indicate criminals have increasingly exploited motorcycles for criminal activities. Ubah urged operators to comply with the registration process for easy identification and accountability. The ban specifically applies to metropolitan cities to strengthen security surveillance and curb urban crime.

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The ban is in the overriding public interest of safety, given the prevailing security challenges across the country. Intelligence reports indicated that criminals had increasingly exploited motorcycles to perpetrate crimes.