Abia Urges Support for Motorcycle Ban Enforcement

The Abia State Government has appealed to residents to support officials enforcing the ban on commercial motorcycle operations in selected parts of Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia. The government said public cooperation is essential to ensure the policy succeeds and protects lives and property.

In a statement released on Sunday, the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, confirmed that authorities have officially begun enforcing the restriction. He acknowledged that many people rely on the commercial motorcycle ban for their daily income. However, he explained that the government introduced the policy to improve security and public safety across the affected areas. He added that the decision serves the wider interest of all residents.

The government also assured the public that officers carrying out the commercial motorcycle ban would act fairly and professionally throughout the exercise. It further announced a reduction in the penalty for violating the policy. Offenders will now pay a N20,000 fine, replacing the previously announced N50,000 penalty.

Under the new rules, every private and commercial motorcycle, as well as all tricycles (Keke), must complete registration and proper documentation with the relevant authorities. In addition, private motorcycle owners must not carry passengers. The government stated that officials will release motorcycles already seized by law enforcement agencies after owners complete registration, verification, documentation, and all other legal requirements.

The state also encouraged residents to report any cases of extortion, abuse of power, or other misconduct by members of the enforcement task force through the official telephone lines provided. The commercial motorcycle ban remains a key part of the government’s efforts to improve safety while ensuring proper regulation of transport activities.