The Abia State Government has announced a ban on commercial motorcycle operations, popularly known as Okada, within the metropolitan areas of Umuahia, Aba and Ohafia, as part of efforts to improve security and restore order in the state’s urban transport system.
The prohibition, approved by Governor Alex Chioma Otti, takes effect on Monday, June 22, 2026.
Announcing the development in a statement, the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, said the decision was aimed at strengthening security, enhancing public safety and improving traffic management across the affected cities.
According to the government, the policy forms part of its “ongoing efforts to strengthen security, enhance public safety, improve traffic management, and promote a more organized transportation system across the affected urban centres.”
The state government directed all commercial motorcycle operators to cease operations within the designated metropolitan areas on or before the effective date, warning that security agencies and relevant enforcement authorities have been mandated to ensure strict compliance.
It further warned that any operator who flouts the directive would face legal consequences.
“Any individual or operator found violating this order shall be arrested, while the motorcycle involved shall be confiscated in accordance with the law,” the statement said.
The government also appealed to residents, transport operators, community leaders, and other stakeholders to support the implementation of the directive.
“The Government calls on residents, transport operators, community leaders, and members of the public to cooperate fully with the authorities in the implementation of this directive, which is aimed at advancing the collective safety and development of the State,” Kanu stated.
The ban is expected to significantly alter the transportation landscape in the three metropolitan areas, with commuters and operators likely to seek alternative means of transportation as enforcement begins.
