The Abia State Government has reduced the penalty for violating its newly introduced restrictions on commercial motorcycle operations from N50,000 to N20,000 and postponed the enforcement of the policy until June 29, 2026.
The review comes less than 24 hours after the government announced restrictions on commercial motorcycle (okada) operations within the Umuahia, Aba and Ohafia metropolitan areas and fixed a N50,000 fine for offenders.
In a public advisory issued on June 24, 2026, the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, said the government was clarifying its position on the regulation of commercial motorcycle operations across the state.
According to the statement, the restriction is a public safety and security measure aimed at protecting lives and property.
“The restriction of commercial motorcycle 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.
The government explained that while it understood the concerns of thousands of residents who depend on motorcycle transportation for their livelihood, the safety of citizens remained its top priority.
“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,” Kanu said.
He stressed that the policy was not targeted at any ethnic group, community or category of persons, adding that it would be applied uniformly to all affected operators.
Under the revised directive, enforcement of the restrictions and the N20,000 penalty will commence on Monday, June 29, 2026.
The government also announced that all motorcycles previously impounded can be reclaimed free of charge after 48 hours, subject to verification and documentation requirements.
It added that any penalties collected before the new commencement date would be refunded.
Private motorcycles, according to the government, will continue to enjoy free passage provided they are duly registered and documented in the state. However, they will not be allowed to carry passengers.
The government further directed all commercial motorcycle operators to wear officially approved Abia State identification vests while operating within their authorised areas.
In addition, all motorcycles, tricycles and commercial vehicles operating in the state must be properly registered and documented in line with government regulations.
To check excesses by enforcement personnel, the state government said it had established a toll-free complaints channel through which members of the public can report misconduct, extortion, abuse or other infractions.
The government urged residents, transport operators and community leaders to cooperate with authorities, insisting that the policy is aimed at improving security and maintaining order across the state.
“There is no cause for panic. This policy is about protecting lives, preserving peace, and building a safer Abia for everyone,” the statement added.
