PRESS RELEASE
ABIA STATE GOVT BEGINS ENFORCEMENT OF COMMERCIAL MOTORCYCLE REGULATION ON MONDAY
The Abia State Government wishes to inform the general public that the enforcement of the restriction on commercial motorcycle (Okada) operations within designated areas of the State will commence on Monday, June 29, 2026.
The regulation 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 fully appreciates the concerns this policy may raise for affected operators and their families. As a people-centered Government, this was not an easy decision.
It was in demonstration of this compassion and understanding that Government postponed the commencement of enforcement to Monday, June 29, 2026, to provide affected operators with additional time to comply with the new regulatory requirements and make the necessary adjustments.
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.
Government remains committed to implementing this policy with fairness, professionalism, and respect for the dignity of all citizens, while continuing its engagement with relevant stakeholders to ensure a smooth and orderly implementation.
Effective Monday, June 29, 2026:
1. Enforcement of the restriction on commercial motorcycle operations within designated areas of the State shall commence.
2. The prescribed ₦20,000 penalty shall apply to all violations of the regulation.
3. All motorcycles impounded for violations shall only be released upon fulfillment of the applicable registration, documentation, verification, and other statutory requirements.
4. Private motorcycles shall continue to enjoy free passage, provided they are duly registered and documented in Abia State. However, private motorcycles are not permitted to carry passengers.
5. All commercial motorcycle operators permitted to operate within approved jurisdictions must wear the officially approved Abia State-issued Identification Vest while carrying out their operations.
6. All motorcycles, tricycles (Keke), and commercial vehicles operating within Abia State must be duly registered and documented in accordance with Government regulations.
7. 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
Abia State Harmonized Task Force (ASHTF) Contact Numbers: 08067955559 | 08050725566 | 09122223825
The Abia State Government appeals 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.
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
28-06-2026
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