Enugu State maintains ban on motorcycles in the capital, vows to apprehend offenders

Enugu State government has reaffirmed the existing ban on the use of motorcycles, commonly referred to as “okada,” within the state’s capital. The government has taken action by forming a taskforce to apprehend and prosecute individuals who defy this regulation.

The Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Emeka Ajogwu, expressed concerns over the public’s growing complaints about the reckless use of motorcycles in the city. In a press statement personally issued by the Commissioner, he emphasized that the government would not tolerate the indiscriminate use of motorcycles. He reminded the public that the law prohibiting this practice remains in effect, and those who breach it face one year of imprisonment and forfeiture of their motorcycles.

Ajogwu stated, “The State Government has observed with grave concern the growing and indiscriminate use of motorcycles by some outlaws in the capital city even when they are aware that there is an existing law prohibiting that.”

He added, “Such illegal acts must cease henceforth as violators of our laws will be dealt with according to the provisions of the extant law. The state has set up a committee to curb this illegality and punish offenders.”

The Commissioner further highlighted that Section 3 and Section 4 of the Operation of Motorcycles (Prohibition) Law, 2012, clearly prohibit motorcycle usage in various areas of the state and outline the penalties for offenders.

The government is determined to enforce this law, and the public, especially violators, have been strongly advised to abstain from these unlawful acts.