MOTORCYCLE BAN: Abia Government Directs Reclaim of Impounded Motorcycles, Gives Implementation Update, Clarity on Enforcement, Others

The Abia State government has stated that all motorcycles previously impounded over the ban on operations in unapproved areas may be reclaimed free of charge after forty-eight (48) hours, subject to verification and documentation requirements.

The Abia government also gave more clarity on the recent ban on motorcycle operations popularly known as Okada in Aba, Umuahia and Ohafia metropolis.

CANDID REPORTERS recalls that Governor Alex Otti on Sunday approved the ban for public safety.

The latest development was made public in a press release made available on Tuesday.

The Abia government appealed to residents, transport operators, community leaders, and members of the public to remain calm, cooperate with the authorities, and support the initiative in the collective interest of the state. Also stating that there is no cause for panic for the policy is about protecting lives, preserving peace, and building a safer Abia for everyone.

The press statement also revealed that penalties on offenders shall take effect from Monday, 29th June, 2026 and the sum of Twenty Thousand Naira (₦20,000) penalty shall only be enforced from Monday, 29th June, 2026 and any penalty amount already collected before the effective commencement date shall be refunded accordingly, while also giving the clarity that 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.

It also hinted that a toll-free public complaints system has been established to enable members of the public to report any misconduct, extortion, abuse, or infractions by Task Force personnel.

See full press statement below.

ABIA STATE GOVT PUBLIC ADVISORY ON THE REGULATION OF COMMERCIAL MOTORCYCLE (OKADA) OPERATIONS

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.

Government recognizes that thousands of hardworking citizens depend on motorcycle transportation for their livelihood, and we 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.

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