CALABAR, Nigeria – Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, has issued a ban on the operations of commercial motorcycles, commonly referred to as Okada, within the Calabar metropolis.
The ban is aimed at streamlining traffic and enhancing security within the city center.
Governor Otu stated that individuals willing to use their motorcycles for commercial purposes should limit their activities to remote areas outside the Calabar city center.
The decision came after extensive consultation with security chiefs in the state.
In a statement released on Wednesday, June 21, 2023, by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Emmanuel Ogbeche, the directive was highlighted, stating, “A total ban on the activities of all commercial motorcyclists within the Calabar metropolis.
Those willing to use their motorcycles to earn a decent living are restricted only to remote areas away from the city center.”
The statement further warned that any individual found in violation of this directive will face the consequences, including impoundment of the motorcycle and prosecution of the offender.
“Anyone caught going against this directive will have the motorcycle impounded and the offender prosecuted,” read the statement.
This move is seen as part of the ongoing efforts by the state government to improve security and regulate transportation within the city of Calabar.
