Less than a day after announcing restrictions on commercial motorcycle operations in parts of Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia, the Abia State Government has reviewed the policy, reducing the penalty for violators from ₦50,000 to ₦20,000 and postponing enforcement by six days.

The adjustment was announced on Wednesday in a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, titled “Abia State Govt Public Advisory on the Regulation of Commercial Motorcycle (Okada) Operations.”

According to the statement, the restriction remains a key public safety and security measure aimed at protecting lives and property across the state.

The government noted that while the policy is necessary, it is also mindful of the thousands of residents who depend on commercial motorcycle operations as a source of livelihood.

“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,” Kanu stated.

He explained that although the decision was difficult, public safety must take precedence over all other considerations.

“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,” he said.

Kanu stressed that the regulation is not targeted at any ethnic group, community, or category of people, but applies equally to all affected operators within the designated areas.

According to him, the objective is to improve public safety, promote orderliness, and support ongoing efforts to safeguard lives and property throughout the state.

The commissioner also assured residents that the government would implement the policy fairly and professionally while engaging stakeholders to reduce its impact on those affected.

As part of the revised measures, enforcement of penalties will now begin on Monday, June 29, 2026, instead of June 23.

He added that all motorcycles previously impounded under the exercise would be released free of charge after 48 hours, subject to proper verification and documentation.

Kanu further stated that any penalty collected before the new commencement date would be refunded.

“The Twenty Thousand Naira (₦20,000) penalty shall only be enforced from Monday, June 29, 2026. Any penalty amount already collected before the effective commencement date shall be refunded accordingly,” the statement noted.

The government also clarified that private motorcycles would continue to move freely, provided they are duly registered and documented within the state. However, they will not be permitted to carry passengers.

To improve accountability, a toll-free complaints system has been established to enable residents report cases of extortion, misconduct, abuse, or any other infractions involving task force personnel.

The statement further directed all commercial motorcycle operators to wear officially approved Abia State identification vests while operating within their approved areas.

In addition, all motorcycles, tricycles (keke), and commercial vehicles operating within the state must be properly registered and documented in line with government regulations.

The government appealed to transport operators, community leaders, and residents to remain calm and cooperate with authorities as the policy is implemented.

“There is no cause for panic. This policy is about protecting lives, preserving peace, and building a safer Abia for everyone,” the statement concluded.