Mirian Gom 
ABIA, Nigeria – The Abia State Government has commenced full enforcement of its commercial motorcycle ban in designated parts of Umuahia, Aba and Ohafia, citing security concerns and public safety as the primary reasons for the restrictions.
Commissioner for Information Prince Okey Kanu announced the development on Tuesday following the State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti.
The ban took effect on June 22, and forms part of broader measures aimed at improving security, increasing internally generated revenue and restoring order in urban areas.
Kanu said motorcycles operating within prohibited areas would be impounded immediately.
“All motorcycles operating on Abia roads, whether commercial, private, courier or delivery, must now be registered under an expanded enumeration exercise that began 18 months ago,” he said.
The Abia State Harmonised Task Force, working alongside security agencies, will enforce the directive.
Riders who violate the order face a ₦50,000 fine payable within 30 days or risk forfeiture of their motorcycles.
The government said colour-coded reflective jackets with local government identification numbers would be introduced for registered riders.
Courier and delivery operators will also receive approved vests.
Kanu added that registered motorcycles would no longer be permitted to carry passengers.
Special Adviser on Security, retired Navy Commander MacDonald Uba, said criminal elements increasingly use motorcycles to commit crimes.
“This is an overriding public interest decision. The governor is being pragmatic in balancing the economic well-being of citizens with their safety and security,” he said.
Uba noted that similar restrictions already exist in neighbouring states.
He said the government was considering alternative transportation arrangements to reduce the economic impact on affected riders.
“Security is everyone’s business, but your personal security is your responsibility,” he said.
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Otamere Gladness 
Oluwafunbi Bello