Abia Govt commences enforcement on restriction of operations of commercial motorcycles

The state government says it has fully commenced the enforcement on the restriction of the operation of commercial motorcycles in designated cities of Umuahia, Aba and Ohafia from this week having exhausted the one week grace given to them.

The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, who stated this while briefing journalists on the outcome of this week’s executive council meeting, presided over by Governor Alex Otti, said, as contained in the advisory that the state government issued last week, the prescribed penalty still remains twenty thousand naira, and shall apply to all violations of the regulation.

Prince Kanu said it was in recognition of the hardship that the restriction poses to the public that the government sanctioned the postponement of the date of commencement of the enforcement to enable affected persons and members of the public to comply with the new regulatory requirements while making necessary adjustments.

He further announced that all impounded motorcycles shall only be released upon fulfillment of the applicable registrations, documentation, verification, and other statutory requirements, noting that Private motorcycles will continue to enjoy free passage provided they are duly registered and documented in the state, while they are not permitted to carry passengers.

The Information Boss maintained that the state government has established a toll-free public complaint system to enable members of the public report cases of misconduct, extortion, abuse, or other infractions by security agencies and Tax Force personnel.

Prince Kanu also said that the state government is committed to implementing the policy with fairness and respect for the dignity of all citizens while engaging constructively with all relevant stakeholders, groups to ensure a smooth and orderly implementation, and used the forum to appeal to residents of the state, transport operators, community leaders, and members of the public to cooperate with relevant authorities to support the initiative in the collective interest of the state.

He assured that government is committed to prioritizing the safety and security of the citizens, noting that no economic or political concentration can outweigh the value of human life.