From Marcel Duru, Owerri
The Government of Hope Uzodimma has reminded the general public and all commercial motorcycle operators (Okada) that, the enforcement of the existing ban on Okada operations within the Imo State capital had commenced. Speaking at the Government House recently he said that this enforcement is being carried out by the Office of the Governor on Monitoring and Compliance, in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport. The measure is aimed at addressing the rising cases of criminal activities associated with commercial motorcyclists, including phone and handbag snatching, robbery, and gun-running, which pose serious risks to the safety and security of residents in the capital city.
Uzodimma added that the measures is also to ensure safety of pedestrian road users from risk posed by heavy duty trucks plying the streets. “The ban is a reinforcement of the already existing laws of the state prohibiting OKADA operations within the following restricted areas of the capital city: Douglas and Wetheral roads, Bank road, IMSU junction Flyover, Amakohia market – AKWAKUMA round about, ALABA market junction to Naze POLY roundabout. All commercial motorcycle operators are strongly advised to comply with this directive. Any bike, mini buses and street trader found operating within the restricted areas from today shall be confiscated, the rider/driver and the street trader will be prosecuted by the court in accordance with the law.
