Wike Considers Okada, Keke Ban in Abuja City Centre Over Rising Security Concerns

Abuja City Centre May Go Okada-Free as Wike Targets Crime Hotspots

Abah Felicity August 4, 2026 2 minutes read

ABUJA, Nigeria – Commercial motorcycles and tricycles could soon be banned from parts of Abuja city centre as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Administration moves to tighten security following intelligence linking motorcycles to rising criminal activities across the nation’s capital.

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike disclosed the proposal during his monthly media briefing aired on Channels Television on Tuesday, saying the planned restriction followed recommendations from the FCT Security Council.

According to the minister, security agencies have identified commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, as a major tool used by criminals and bandits for mobility and escape during operations.

“Security reports indicate that motorcycles are increasingly being used to facilitate criminal activities. We must take proactive steps to improve security across the FCT,” Wike said.

He announced that additional security logistics had already been approved while relevant agencies had been directed to identify strategic locations where commercial motorcycles and tricycles, popularly called Keke Napep, should no longer operate.

Wike explained that the proposed restriction would focus primarily on Abuja’s city centre rather than imposing a blanket ban across the Federal Capital Territory.

“We recognise that many residents depend on these means of transport. That is why the focus is on specific areas where their operations may no longer be necessary,” he added.

Beyond transportation, the minister also addressed the growing challenge of street begging in Abuja, noting that government efforts to remove beggars and destitute persons often produce only temporary results as many eventually return after being relocated.