The Imo State Government has announced the renewed enforcement of the ban on commercial motorcycle operations, popularly known as Okada, within Owerri Municipal, citing rising security threats and criminal activities associated with their operations. This was disclosed in a public notice signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Monitoring and Compliance, Mr. Chinasa Nwaneri, dated November 1, 2025.
According to the statement, the government has observed with concern the increasing involvement of some commercial motorcyclists in crimes such as bag snatching, phone theft, and alleged gun-running within the municipality. In view of these developments, the state authorities have opted to take decisive action to protect residents and maintain public order.
The government has issued a seven-day ultimatum to all Okada operators within Owerri Municipal to vacate the area and cease operations. This notice spans from November 1 to November 7, 2025. During this grace period, operators are expected to comply voluntarily and desist from operating within the city.
Effective from November 8, 2025, full enforcement of the ban will commence. Any commercial motorcycle found operating within the municipality will be confiscated by law enforcement authorities. In addition, offenders will be subjected to trial by a mobile court in accordance with the existing legal provisions governing public transport and security in the state.
The Special Adviser on Monitoring and Compliance stressed that this action is not targeted at punishing law-abiding citizens but is a necessary step to curb growing insecurity and safeguard lives and property. The government called on residents to support the enforcement exercise and cooperate with security agencies to ensure peace and order within Owerri.
The notice serves as a final warning to all stakeholders, particularly Okada unions and riders, urging them to respect the directive and relocate their operations to areas where they are legally permitted. It also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to maintaining security, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring a safer environment for all residents and visitors in the state capital.
As enforcement approaches, residents have been advised to seek alternative means of transportation, while transport operators have been encouraged to adhere strictly to traffic regulations and government policies.
