In Jos, Plateau State, commercial motorcycle and tricycle riders, known as 'Okada', have continued to operate despite a ban imposed by the state government and enforced by security agencies.

Government Warns Against Defiance The Plateau State Police Command warned that violators will be arrested and prosecuted in line with the directive.

Restrictions in Place Since 2010 The directive, backed by a 2010 law, prohibits the operation of commercial motorcycles within designated areas and regulates tricycle movement, particularly during evening hours.

Residents Speak Out A resident, Mrs Lilian Davou, said motorcycles still move within some communities at night despite the restrictions. She called on security operatives to ensure that the ban is fully implemented.

Security Agencies' Enforcement The Plateau State Police Command, through its Public Relations Officer, SP Alfred Alabo, said enforcement is ongoing across the metropolis.

Enforcement Challenges SP Alabo noted that enforcement alone may not fully achieve compliance as long as demand persists. He urged residents to support government efforts by avoiding the use of banned commercial motorcycles within restricted zones.

Governor's Directive The ban was imposed following recent security concerns in parts of the state, with Governor Caleb Mutfwang directing security agencies to enforce the prohibition on commercial motorcycle activities within the Jos Greater Master Plan area.

Vanguard Observe Operations Vanguard observed that some commercial tricycles and motorcycles were still operating beyond the restricted hours in parts of the metropolis, including Old Airport Junction, the National Library area, Rayfield, Tudun Wada, and adjoining communities.

Residents' Concerns The continued operation has raised concerns over compliance and enforcement of the security measures introduced by the government to strengthen public safety.

Next Steps Security agencies have continued enforcement operations and violators will be arrested and prosecuted in line with the directive. The Plateau State Government urges residents to support the ban by avoiding the use of banned commercial motorcycles within restricted zones.

Context The ban on commercial motorcycle activities is part of broader measures aimed at improving security across the Jos–Bukuru metropolis. Governor Mutfwang has directed security agencies to enforce the prohibition on commercial motorcycle activities within the Jos Greater Master Plan area.

Key Facts

  • The 2010 law regulating commercial motorcycle and tricycle activities in Jos has not been repealed.
  • The ban on commercial motorcycle activities has been in place since the directive was issued by Governor Mutfwang.
  • The Plateau State Police Command has warned that violators will be arrested and prosecuted in line with the directive.
  • The ban is intended to limit the movement of criminal elements who allegedly exploit motorcycles for attacks and rapid escape.
  • The Plateau State Government urges residents to support the ban by avoiding the use of banned commercial motorcycles within restricted zones.