Abia State Government has reduced the penalty for violating okada restrictions from N50,000 to N20,000 and pushed back the enforcement date to June 29, 2026.
The decision comes less than 24 hours after the state announced a ban on commercial motorcycle operations in Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia metropolises with a N50,000 fine for defaulters. The revised policy was announced on Wednesday in a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu.
According to the statement titled “Abia State Govt Public Advisory on the Regulation of Commercial Motorcycle (Okada) Operations,” the restriction is a public safety and security measure meant to protect lives and property. The government said the policy applies uniformly to all operators and is not targeted at any ethnic group, community, or category of persons.
Kanu explained that the government recognizes thousands of residents depend on motorcycle transport for their livelihood. While maintaining that safety must come first, he said the administration is people-centred and has considered the concerns of affected operators and their families.
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Under the revised rules, penalties will only take effect from Monday, June 29, 2026. Motorcycles already impounded can be reclaimed free of charge within 48 hours after verification and documentation. Any fines collected before the new commencement date will be refunded. Only the N20,000 penalty will be enforced from June 29.
The statement added that private motorcycles can still move freely but must be registered and documented in the state and are not allowed to carry passengers. All commercial motorcycle operators must wear the approved Abia State identification vest within their permitted areas.
Kanu also said a toll-free complaints line has been set up for residents to report misconduct, extortion, or abuse by task force personnel. He urged residents, transport operators, and community leaders to cooperate with the policy, saying it is aimed at preserving peace and building a safer Abia.
All motorcycles, tricycles, and commercial vehicles operating in the state must now be duly registered and documented in line with government regulations.
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