The Abia State Government has revised key aspects of its newly announced restrictions on commercial motorcycle operations, reducing the penalty for violations from ₦50,000 to ₦20,000 and postponing enforcement by six days. The changes come less than 24 hours after the government announced restrictions on commercial motorcycle activities within the Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia metropolitan areas as part of efforts to improve public safety and security.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Commissioner for Information Okey Kanu said the government considered public concerns before making the adjustments to the Abia okada regulation policy. According to the statement, the restrictions remain a security and public safety measure aimed at protecting lives and property across the state.
“The 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,” the statement read.
Kanu acknowledged that many residents depend on motorcycle transportation for their daily income and livelihood. He said the government understood the concerns raised by operators and their families following the initial announcement.
“The government recognises 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-centred 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 commissioner stressed that the policy is not targeted at any ethnic group, community, or category of residents. Rather, he said the Abia okada regulation applies uniformly to all affected operators and is intended to improve public order and strengthen security efforts.
Under the revised directive, enforcement of the restrictions and associated penalties will begin on Monday, June 29, 2026, instead of June 23 as originally announced. Kanu stated that all motorcycles previously impounded under the policy may be reclaimed free of charge after 48 hours, subject to verification and documentation requirements.
“The Twenty Thousand Naira (₦20,000) penalty shall only be enforced from Monday, June 29, 2026. Any penalty amount already collected before the effective commencement date shall be refunded accordingly.” The government also clarified that private motorcycles may continue operating freely, provided they are properly registered and documented. However, private motorcycle owners will not be permitted to carry passengers.
As part of the Abia okada regulation, commercial motorcycle operators must wear officially approved state-issued identification vests while operating within authorised areas.
The government further directed that all motorcycles, tricycles, and commercial vehicles operating within the state must be fully registered and documented in accordance with existing regulations. To improve accountability, a toll-free complaints platform has also been established for residents to report cases of extortion, misconduct, abuse, or other infractions involving task force personnel.
The state government appealed for cooperation from transport operators, community leaders, and residents, insisting that the policy is designed to strengthen safety, preserve public order, and support the long-term development of a more secure Abia State.
“There is no cause for panic. This policy is about protecting lives, preserving peace, and building a safer Abia for everyone.”
