The Abia State Government has banned commercial motorcycle operations, popularly known as okada, within the metropolitan areas of Umuahia, Aba and Ohafia as part of efforts to strengthen security and improve urban transportation.
The directive, which takes effect from Monday, June 22, 2026, was announced in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu.
According to the government, the measure is aimed at enhancing public safety, improving traffic management and promoting a more organised transportation system across the affected urban centres.
“This policy forms part of the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen security, enhance public safety, improve traffic management, and promote a more organised transportation system across the affected urban centres,” the statement read.
The government directed all commercial motorcycle operators to immediately cease operations within the designated metropolitan areas, warning that enforcement would be strict.
Security agencies and relevant enforcement bodies have also been instructed to ensure full compliance, with violators facing arrest and confiscation of their motorcycles in accordance with the law.
The state government urged residents, transport operators and community leaders to cooperate with authorities, describing the policy as necessary for public safety and orderly urban development.
With the latest directive, Abia joins a growing number of states that have restricted okada operations in major cities over concerns relating to insecurity, traffic congestion and road safety.
