BY SOLOMON OKPO
The Akwa Ibom State Government has reaffirmed its determination to enforce the ban on motorcycles, tricycles, and mini buses operating along restricted routes within the Uyo metropolis, warning that violators will face prosecution and possible forfeiture of their vehicles.
The Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Anthony Luke, stated that the restriction on the operations of motorcycles, popularly known as “okada,” tricycles (“keke”), and mini buses in designated areas remains fully in force and has never been suspended.
According to him, prohibited areas include Barracks Road, major trunk roads, and the entire Uyo metropolis, except for operators granted special permits by the Ministry of Transport.
Dr. Luke explained that such permits are reserved for essential service providers, including health workers, courier operators, and other personnel engaged in critical duties.
He stressed that the state government remains uncompromising in its enforcement efforts, noting that any motorcycle or tricycle found operating within restricted zones would be impounded and prosecuted through the mobile court system.
“The mobile court is empowered to impose substantial fines and authorize the forfeiture of offending vehicles in accordance with existing state regulations,” he said.
To enhance compliance and accountability, the commissioner disclosed that all delivery and logistics operators using motorcycles are required to obtain official permits from the Ministry of Transport.
He added that every approved delivery motorcycle would be profiled and registered under the name of its operator to ensure effective traceability and monitoring.
Dr. Luke further revealed that enforcement personnel, working in collaboration with security and law enforcement agencies, have been deployed across the state to ensure strict adherence to transport regulations.
The officers, who are required to carry valid identification cards, have been mandated to rid prohibited areas of unauthorized commercial motorcycles, tricycles, and mini buses while maintaining order within the state capital.
The commissioner emphasized that the government’s policy is aimed at enhancing public safety, improving traffic management, and restoring orderliness within the Uyo metropolis.
He urged transport operators and residents to comply with the regulations, warning that the state government would not relent in its efforts to sanitize the transport sector and ensure a safer environment for all road users.
