Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has banned the operation of commercial motorcycles, known as “okada,” in Umuahia and Aba metropolises.
Governor Otti’s spokesperson, Kazie Uko, disclosed this in a statement.
Uko said the prohibition against the operation of commercial motorcyclists in the state comes into effect immediately, but he did not provide any justification for the ban.
He added that any motorcycle seen on the streets of Umuahia and Aba townships being used for such purposes will be impounded by the security agencies.
“The Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has directed the immediate ban on the operation of commercial motorcyclists, otherwise known as Okada, within Umuahia, the State capital, and Aba Metropolis,” Uko stated.
“Effective Monday, August 14, 2023, any motorcycle seen on the streets of Umuahia and Aba townships being used for such purposes will be impounded by the security agencies.”
Uko also noted that the security agencies in the state have been directed to arrest any individual caught violating the order for possible prosecution.