The Abia State Government has announced a ban on the operation of commercial motorcycles, popularly known as okada, within the metropolitan areas of Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia as part of efforts to enhance security and improve the state’s transportation system.
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The prohibition, which takes effect from Monday, June 22, 2026, was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday by the Commissioner for Information, Mr. Okey Kanu.
According to the government, the decision is part of ongoing measures aimed at strengthening security, enhancing public safety, improving traffic management, and promoting a more organized and efficient transportation network across the affected urban centres.
“This policy forms part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen security, enhance public safety, improve traffic management, and promote a more organised transportation system across the affected urban centres,” the statement noted.
The government directed all commercial motorcycle operators to discontinue operations within the designated metropolitan areas on or before the effective date of the ban.
To ensure compliance, security agencies and relevant enforcement authorities have been mandated to enforce the directive strictly. The government warned that operators who violate the order would face legal sanctions.
“Any individual or operator found violating this order shall be arrested, while the motorcycle involved shall be confiscated in accordance with the law,” the statement added.
The state government further appealed to residents, transport operators, community leaders, and other stakeholders to cooperate with authorities in implementing the policy, describing it as a necessary step toward improving public safety and fostering sustainable development in the state.
Affected operators and members of the public have been urged to take immediate note of the directive and comply fully with the new regulations.
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