A’Ibom govt reaffirms restriction on commercial motorcycles, tricycles in Uyo

The Akwa Ibom State Government has reiterated that the ban on commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada, remains in force across Uyo, the state capital.

The Commissioner for Transport, Anthony Luke, stated that tricycles, popularly called Keke, and mini buses are also prohibited from operating in certain designated areas within the city.

According to the commissioner, restricted zones for motorcycle operations include Barracks Road, major trunk roads, and the entire Uyo metropolis. He noted that only motorcycles granted special permits by the Ministry of Transport are exempted from the restriction.

These permits are reserved for essential service providers such as health workers and other critical duty personnel, like courier services, he said.

The commissioner said, “The enforcement regime is uncompromising. Any motorcycle or tricycle apprehended within prohibited zones will be impounded and prosecuted at the mobile court. The court is empowered to impose substantial fines and authorize forfeiture in line with state regulations.

“To streamline compliance, all delivery and logistics agents operating motorcycles must obtain official government permits through the Ministry of Transport. Each delivery motorcycle will be profiled and registered under the name of its operator to ensure traceability and accountability.

“Enforcement officers, working in synergy with law enforcement agencies and bearing valid identity cards, have been deployed across the state.

“Our mandate is to sanitize prohibited areas, rid Uyo metropolis of unauthorized commercial motorcycles, tricycles, and mini buses, and ensure strict adherence to transport regulations”.

The government maintained that the ban is a public safety measure aimed at restoring order to the capital city.

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