For Immediate Release

‎24th June, 2026

‎CEHRAWS WELCOMES ABIA STATE GOVERNMENT’S CLARIFICATIONS ON COMMERCIAL MOTORCYCLE REGULATION, CALLS FOR SUSTAINED STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

‎The Centre for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society, (CEHRAWS), has carefully reviewed the recent Public Advisory issued by the Abia State Government on the regulation of commercial motorcycle (Okada) operations and the modalities for implementing the policy within designated areas of the State.

‎CEHRAWS commends the Abia State Government for demonstrating responsiveness to public concerns through the issuance of additional clarifications and implementation guidelines aimed at ensuring a more orderly, transparent, and humane enforcement process.

‎The supplementary measures contained in the advisory, particularly the deferment of penalties, the release of impounded motorcycles subject to proper documentation, the establishment of toll-free complaint channels, the commitment to refund penalties collected before the commencement date, and the assurance of fair and professional enforcement, represent a commendable effort to balance public safety objectives with the rights, welfare, and legitimate concerns of citizens.

‎As a civil society organisation dedicated to the promotion of human rights, accountability, and good governance, CEHRAWS has consistently maintained that while Government possesses both the authority and responsibility to adopt lawful measures for the protection of lives and property, such measures must be implemented in a manner that respects constitutional guarantees, strengthens public confidence, and minimizes avoidable socio-economic hardship.

‎We are therefore encouraged by the Government’s acknowledgement of the concerns expressed by affected operators and its public commitment to fairness, professionalism, and respect for the dignity of all citizens. The creation of dedicated channels through which members of the public can report misconduct, extortion, abuse, or other forms of unprofessional conduct by enforcement personnel is particularly noteworthy and reflects an important commitment to accountability and rights-based governance.

‎CEHRAWS also welcomes the Government’s emphasis on registration, documentation, and identification of operators and vehicles. Over the years, we have advocated for innovative, technology-driven, and intelligence-led regulatory approaches capable of enhancing security and public order without unnecessarily disrupting lawful economic activities. Effective profiling systems, comprehensive documentation, digital monitoring mechanisms, and stakeholder-informed reforms often provide more sustainable and long-term solutions to security and transportation challenges than purely restrictive measures.

‎While the recent advisory has addressed several concerns previously raised by members of the public and civil society stakeholders, we respectfully encourage the Government to sustain and deepen engagement with transport unions, community leaders, youth groups, civil society organisations, and other relevant stakeholders throughout the implementation process. Continuous dialogue will not only foster greater public understanding and cooperation but will also enable the Government to identify emerging challenges and make necessary adjustments where required.

‎Furthermore, we urge all enforcement agencies and task force personnel involved in the implementation of this policy to operate strictly within the confines of the law and in accordance with the directives issued by the Government. Acts of harassment, extortion, unlawful seizure of property, discrimination, or abuse of authority would undermine the noble objectives of the policy and diminish public trust in the process.

‎CEHRAWS remains firmly convinced that the pursuit of security, public order, and urban development must be harmonized with the protection of human rights, economic justice, and the rule of law. We therefore view the Government’s latest advisory as a positive and reassuring development, demonstrating a willingness to listen, engage, and refine public policies in response to legitimate public concerns.

‎CONCLUSION

‎CEHRAWS reiterates its support for lawful, people-centred, and evidence-based policies aimed at improving security and public safety across Abia State. We commend the Abia State Government for the clarifications, safeguards, and accountability measures introduced through its latest advisory and encourage it to continue embracing innovation, transparency, and stakeholder engagement as implementation progresses.

‎Good governance is not measured solely by the formulation of policies but also by the willingness to listen, adapt, and carry the people along. The Government’s recent clarifications reflect an encouraging commitment to these principles. We therefore urge all stakeholders to continue working collaboratively towards the shared goal of building a safer, more prosperous, and rights-respecting Abia State.

‎CEHRAWS remains committed to constructive engagement, principled advocacy, and meaningful collaboration in advancing policies that protect lives, uphold human dignity, and promote sustainable development for all.

‎Signed:

‎Okoye, Chuka Peter

‎Executive Director, CEHRAWS

‎cehraws@gmail.com | +234(0)808-035-1242(WhatsApp only)

‎Facebook: @cehraws

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