Abia State bans commercial motorcycles in three cities

The Abia State Government has banned commercial motorcycle operations in the metropolitan cities of Aba, Umuahia, and Ohafia, with enforcement beginning on Monday, June 22, 2026. Officials announced the policy, citing overriding public safety and security concerns, and said it would be enforced by a state task force in collaboration with security agencies.

Commissioner for Information Okey Kanu detailed the regulations on Tuesday, June 23, following a State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti. Under the new directive, any motorcycle found operating within the restricted metropolitan zones will be impounded. Owners can reclaim impounded vehicles only upon payment of a 50,000 naira fine within 30 days; failure to pay will result in forfeiture of the motorcycle to the state government.

A central component of the policy is the mandatory registration of all motorcycles-commercial, private, courier, and delivery-under the state’s ongoing vehicle enumeration program, which began 18 months ago. The Abia State Board of Internal Revenue will maintain a database of registered vehicles. For identification, operators will be issued reflective jackets or vests...