Abia Seeks Public Support for Motorcycle Ban

The Abia State Government has asked residents to support officials enforcing the commercial motorcycle ban in selected parts of Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, confirmed that authorities have officially begun enforcing the policy. He appealed to citizens to cooperate with the relevant agencies responsible for carrying out the exercise, stressing that the measure aims to improve public safety and strengthen security across the affected areas.

The government acknowledged that many residents rely on commercial motorcycle transport for their daily income. However, it explained that the commercial motorcycle ban was introduced to protect lives and property and serves the wider interests of the public. It also assured residents that enforcement officers would carry out their duties fairly and professionally.

As part of the revised policy, anyone who breaks the commercial motorcycle ban will now pay a fine of N20,000, instead of the earlier proposed N50,000. The government also directed all owners of private and commercial motorcycles, as well as tricycles, popularly known as Keke, to complete registration and proper documentation.

The policy further states that private motorcycle riders must not carry passengers. In addition, authorities will release motorcycles seized during enforcement once owners complete registration, verification, documentation and meet all statutory requirements.

The state government also encouraged residents to report any cases of extortion, abuse of power or other misconduct involving Task Force officials through the designated telephone lines. It said public cooperation and accountability will help ensure the commercial motorcycle ban achieves its intended purpose while protecting the rights of citizens.

Do you think the commercial motorcycle ban will improve security without placing too much pressure on affected livelihoods?