Plateau State Government To Enforce Ban On Okada In 72-Hours

The Plateau State Government has given commercial motorcycle operators 72 hours to leave restricted areas in the Jos-Bukuru metropolis.

The ban flows the the recent influx of over 400 motorcycles within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis, warning that this development violates existing laws prohibiting motorcycles within the Greater Jos Master Plan.

The Plateau state commisioner for transport, Jatau, Davou Gyang in a statement on Tuesday said the "Greater Jos Master Plan” prohibits motorcycle operations within the metropolis.

This move comes after credible reports indicated a surge in the number of motorcycles operating within the metropolitan area, prompting concerns regarding public safety and law enforcement. The state government has emphasized that the presence of motorcycles in these areas is illegal and constitutes a breach of the law.

Hon. Davou Jatau Gyang, made it clear that the 72-hour window is a final warning for motorcycle operators to comply with the ban.

“We are committed to upholding public safety, enforcing the law, and maintaining order, Motorcycle operators who fail to adhere to this directive will face strict legal action," Jatau stated.

The Plateau State Government has already mobilized mobile courts across the metropolis to ensure compliance with the law. Offenders found operating in restricted zones will be prosecuted without exception.

The government reiterated that the motorcycle ban within the Greater Jos area remains in full force and non-negotiable. This directive also underscores the state’s continued efforts to address urban traffic challenges and ensure the safety of residents in the face of growing concerns over motorcycle-related accidents and security risks.

Hon. Gyang also called on residents to support the enforcement of the law and urged motorcycle operators to respect the restrictions to avoid confrontation with law enforcement agencies.

“We understand the role motorcycles play in transportation, but it is important that everyone operates within the boundaries of the law for the greater good of the community,” the Commissioner concluded.

Before the official statement, a message widely circulated on social media heightened residents’ awareness of the issue.

The message, titled “Security Alert and Concern by Observant Jos Residents,” described a surge in unregistered commercial motorcycles in parts of Jos town.

The message said: “Observant citizens have noticed with grave concern the massive influx of strange commercial bikers (‘Going’) in Jos town, approximately numbering between 200-500, with brand new Bajaj motorcycles without number plates. Most of them wear crash helmets with face masks or head warmers that conceal their faces.