Cross River State Govt ban commercial motorcycle (Okada) in Calabar

Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River State has ordered a total ban on the use of motorcycles within the Calabar metropolis and its environs.

This is coming seven years after Imoke had initially banned the use of motorcycles in the metropolis but allowed commercial motorcycle operation in the inner streets around the Ekorinim, Eight Miles, Atimbo and the other areas of Calabar.

Crime rates in the areas, where these motorcycles operate, have been on the increase in recent times.

In a statement by the State Security Adviser, Mr. Rekpene Bassey, Imoke said any violation of the order would attract severe penalty irrespective of whatever safety measure the rider had taken.

The statement read in part, “Governor Liyel Imoke has issued an executive order of total ban on the use of motorcycles within Calabar and its environs. This order comes into full force on October 25.

“Consequently, any violation of this order would attract appropriate and severe penalties, including the impounding of the bikes irrespective of whether or not the rider is wearing a crash helmet.

“This action is in the interest of safety, security and welfare of all persons in the state capital, particularly following the persistent abuse of exemption accorded bike owners and users by the governor.”

Bassey, however, noted that there were ongoing arrangements to grant special passes and identification to persons performing special duties requiring the use of motorcycles including courier services.