RismadarVoice Reporters, June 21, 2026
Abia State Government has announced a ban on commercial motorcycle operations, popularly known as okada, within the metropolitan areas of Umuahia, Aba and Ohafia, as part of efforts to improve security and public safety.
The prohibition, approved by the state government, will take effect from Monday, June 22, 2026.
The development was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, who said the measure is designed to strengthen security, improve traffic management and promote a more organized transportation system in the affected urban centres.
According to the government, the decision forms part of ongoing initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety, reducing traffic-related challenges and supporting orderly urban development across the state.
The statement directed all commercial motorcycle operators to discontinue their activities within the designated metropolitan areas on or before the commencement date of the ban.
To ensure compliance, security agencies and other relevant enforcement authorities have been directed to enforce the directive strictly.
The government warned that violators would face sanctions, including arrest and confiscation of their motorcycles.
“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 said.
The state government called on residents, transport operators, community leaders and other stakeholders to cooperate with authorities in implementing the policy.
It maintained that the directive is in the overall interest of public safety, security and sustainable development.
The government further urged all affected persons to take immediate note of the directive and comply accordingly ahead of the implementation date.
The ban is expected to significantly alter urban transportation within Umuahia, Aba and Ohafia, where commercial motorcycles have long served as a major means of mobility for residents.
