The Edo State Government says the ban on commercial motorcycle operations, popularly known as Okada, in parts of Benin City remains in force, citing security concerns.
Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Prince Kasim Afegbua, stated this during a monthly press briefing in Benin City, where he explained that the government is not considering an immediate reversal of the policy.
Afegbua said the restriction was introduced primarily as a security measure, noting that intelligence and security reports continued to raise concerns about the use of motorcycles for criminal activities.
“Okada as a means of transportation in Benin City remains banned. We are not pretending about it. The reason why this was done ab initio was purely for security reasons.”
The Commissioner said security agencies had continued to receive reports of motorcycles being used in criminal operations, including kidnapping and robbery.
He warned that motorcycle operators found riding in areas where their activities are prohibited would be arrested.
“These days the kind of report we are getting are unpalatable. People using Okada to kidnap, rob people. If you are caught in the name of Okada where you are not supposed to be, you will be arrested.”
Afegbua, however, said the government was taking steps to streamline the activities of motorcycle operators through a committee headed by the Commissioner for Public Safety and Security, Hon. Festus Ebea.
He said the committee would examine the activities of Okada riders and provide a framework for regulating their operations within areas where they may be permitted.
The government’s position comes amid continuing concerns over security and transportation in Benin City, with the authorities maintaining that public safety remains the primary consideration behind the restriction.
Afegbua said the administration would continue to balance the need for effective transportation with measures aimed at protecting residents and their property.