“Government is committed to implementing this policy with fairness, professionalism, and respect for the dignity of all citizens. We are also engaging relevant stakeholders and exploring practical measures to ease the impact on those who may be affected”
The Abia State government revisits the ban on operators of Motorcycles popularly named Okada in its three major cosmopolitan cities of Aba, Umuahia and Ohafia.
Citing Security concerns the government through its Commissioner of Information Mr. Okey Kanu had announced a blanket ban on riders of Okoda Motorcycles outrightly which led to seizures from defaulting operators by the taskforce empowered to enforce compliance immediately.
As outcries and anger of the plight of commuters whose means of commuting to their residences and farmlands especially in remote regions in all three locations rises against government decisions to disconnect both users and operators from their means of livelihood, the State government hurriedly revisits the decision while emphasizing on security concerns and safety of every indigene and residents in the state.
In a statement issued by the Honorable Commissioner of Information, clarifying the positions of government on such dire matters that affect the citizenry, it stated that “the Abia State Government wishes to inform the general public that the restriction of commercial motorcycle (Okada) operations within designated areas of the State is a public safety and security measure undertaken in the overriding interest of protecting lives and property has been revisited to observe and carry out holistic measures in providing adequate security that do not add to the burden of the citizenry in going out to pursue legitimate means of survival.
The statement further clarified that Government recognizes that thousands of hardworking citizens depend on motorcycle transportation for their livelihood, and fully appreciate the concerns this policy may raise for affected operators and their families. As a people-centered Government, this was not an easy decision.” the statement reads.
“However, the safety and security of our citizens must always remain paramount. No economic consideration can outweigh the value of human life. The primary responsibility of Government is to ensure that residents can live, work, and move about in a safe and secure environment.
This policy is not directed at any ethnic group, community, or category of persons. It applies uniformly to all affected operators and is solely intended to enhance public safety, improve orderliness, and support ongoing efforts to safeguard lives across the State.
Government is committed to implementing this policy with fairness, professionalism, and respect for the dignity of all citizens. We are also engaging relevant stakeholders and exploring practical measures to ease the impact on those who may be affected.
IMPORTANT IMPLEMENTATION UPDATE
1. Penalties shall take effect from Monday, 29th June, 2026.
2. All motorcycles previously impounded may be reclaimed free of charge after forty-eight (48) hours, subject to verification and documentation requirements.
3. The Twenty Thousand Naira (₦20,000) penalty shall only be enforced from Monday, 29th June, 2026.
4. Any penalty amount already collected before the effective commencement date shall be refunded accordingly.
5. Private motorcycles shall continue to enjoy free passage but must be duly registered and documented in the State, and are not permitted to carry any passengers.
6. A toll-free public complaints system has been established to enable members of the public report any misconduct, extortion, abuse, or infractions by Task Force personnel.
Citizens Toll-Free Numbers: 0800000232 | 08001235555 | 08002225242
ASHTF Contact Numbers: 08067955559 | 08050725566 | 09122223825
7. All motorcycles already impounded must first be duly registered and documented before release.
8. All Commercial Motorcycle Operators must wear the officially approved Abia State-issued Identification Vest while operating within their approved jurisdictions.
9. All motorcycles, tricycles (Keke), and commercial vehicles operating within Abia State must henceforth be duly registered and documented in accordance with Government regulations.
We therefore appeal to all residents, transport operators, community leaders, and members of the public to remain calm, cooperate with the authorities, and support this initiative in the collective interest of our State.
There is no cause for panic. This policy is about protecting lives, preserving peace, and building a safer Abia for everyone.
ABIA STATE GOVERNMENT
Protecting Lives, Preserving Peace, Building Prosperity!
Signed:
Prince Okey Kanu
Hon. Commissioner for Information
23-06-2026
