Ahead of Abia State Government’s proposed implementation of its ban on commercial motorcycle operations within the metropolitan areas of Umuahia, Aba and Ohafia, a rights group, the Centre for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society (CEHRAWS) has called for lawful and humane implementation of the directive.
The state government had planned the ban to take effect from 22nd June, 2026, as part of efforts at enhancing security, improving public safety, strengthening traffic management and promoting a more organized transportation system.
Addressing newsmen in Umuahia, the Executive Director of CEHRAWS, Comrade Chuka Okoye, observed that restrictions and outright bans on commercial motorcycle operations have, over the years, been adopted by successive administrations in different parts of Nigeria, including previous governments in Abia State, with varying degrees of success.
He said while such measures may provide short-term responses to security and traffic concerns, experience has shown that they do not always address the underlying factors driving insecurity, urban transportation challenges and youth unemployment.
Okoye advised the Otti-led administration, as an administration widely acknowledged for its reform-oriented and innovative approach to governance, to distinguish itself by exploring more sustainable and technology-driven alternatives.
These, he said, included comprehensive rider registration and profiling systems, digital monitoring mechanisms, route regulation, stricter licensing requirements, and the expansion of safe, affordable and efficient public transportation.
“Such forward-looking measures would not only strengthen security but also reflect the progressive governance standards for which this administration has increasingly become known for.
“While the rationale behind the policy is understandable, its implementation must be guided by the principles of constitutionalism, fairness, proportionality and respect for the rule of law.
“The announced sanctions, including the arrest of violators and confiscation of motorcycles, must derive clear authority from extant laws and be enforced strictly in accordance with due process. Constitutional safeguards relating to personal liberty, fair hearing and property rights, as guaranteed under Sections 35, 36 and 44 of the Constitution, must remain protected throughout the enforcement process,” he said.
Okoye acknowledged the socio-economic implications of the ban, noting that commercial motorcycle transportation remains a major source of livelihood for thousands of residents and serves as a critical means of mobility for many commuters.
He advised that policies such as the ban should be complemented by adequate stakeholder engagement, practical transition measures and the provision of accessible and affordable alternative transportation options to mitigate unintended hardship.
He said, “In addition, consideration should be given to empowerment programmes, skills acquisition initiatives and other economic support measures capable of assisting affected operators to transition into alternative lawful means of livelihood.
“In the interest of transparency, public confidence and sustainable implementation, we respectfully urge the Government to clearly communicate the legal framework underpinning the policy, ensure that enforcement officers operate strictly within the confines of the law, establish effective oversight mechanisms to prevent abuses during enforcement, and continue engaging relevant stakeholders throughout the implementation process.”
The CEHRAWS boss, while maintaining that the organization supports lawful and well-considered measures aimed at improving security and public order in Abia State, said the success of any such policy will ultimately depend not only on its objectives but also on the legality, fairness and humanity of its implementation.
He called on the Government to leverage innovation, technology, and inclusive stakeholder engagement in addressing the challenges associated with commercial motorcycle operations rather than relying solely on restrictive measures that have been repeatedly deployed in the past with mixed outcomes.
“A secure, prosperous and well-governed Abia State is a collective aspiration. We remain committed to supporting policies that advance public safety while safeguarding constitutional rights, economic justice and the dignity of all citizens,” Okoye concluded.
