The Enugu State government is reinforcing the prohibition of commercial motorcycles in the capital, warning that offenders could face imprisonment for one year and lose their motorcycles to the government.
In a statement, the Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. Emeka Ajogwu, highlighted the government’s commitment to enforcing the law and mentioned the formation of a task force to apprehend and prosecute those violating the ban.
The government’s decision to uphold the ban was influenced by growing concerns from the public regarding the reckless use of motorcycles in the city center.
Ajogwu stressed that the government would not stand idly by while this violation persisted and reminded the public that the law remained in full effect, with offenders risking one-year imprisonment and forfeiture of their motorcycles.
“The State Government has observed with grave concern the growing and indiscriminate use of motorcycles by some outlaws in the capital city even when they are aware that there is an existing law prohibiting that,” Ajogwu stated.
“Our office has received a series of inquiries from members of the public expressing fears over their safety due to the reckless manner in which these offenders are driving their motorcycles within the Enugu metropolis.”
He cautioned that these unlawful activities must cease, and violators would be dealt with in accordance with the law.
The ban on commercial motorcycles in the state capital was enacted on July 3, 2012, under the administration of then-Governor Sullivan Chime.
The decision to ban commercial motorcycles was driven by a surge in crime, with many of these crimes being facilitated by the use of motorcycles by criminals.
As Governor Chime stated, “As a responsive and responsible government, we have enacted this law in the best interest of all of us.”
| Sahara Reporters