Wike Approves Restriction Of Okada, Keke In Parts Of FCT Over Security Concerns

Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has approved the restriction of commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, and tricycles, or Keke Napep, in parts of the capital over security concerns.

Wike disclosed this on Tuesday during his monthly media chat in Abuja, saying the decision followed recommendations from the FCT Executive Security Council.

He said security reports had established a link between motorcycle use and bandit activity, making restrictions necessary in areas considered vulnerable to crime.

“Just this morning, I signed the approval because we had an Executive Security Council meeting where we have agreed, not just causing a nuisance, but for the issue of security. It has become a threat,” Wike said.

“From our security report — bandits — they don’t act without using motorcycles. So it’s a problem,” Wike stated.

The minister said the security council had been directed to identify areas where the use of motorcycles and tricycles would no longer be permitted, particularly within the city centre.

“I have told the security council to map out areas where we do not need the Keke Napep and the motorcycle. But it will be difficult for you to ban them in the entire Abuja,” he said.

“Particularly, it is necessary within the city not to allow Keke Napep and the Okada. So they are working that out,” he stated.

Wike said the approval also included the release of logistics to support the enforcement of the restriction once the affected areas had been identified.

The FCT has previously faced concerns over the use of commercial motorcycles and tricycles in relation to traffic management and security, with some states across Nigeria imposing restrictions in parts of their jurisdictions.

In Lagos, Okada and Keke have been restricted from operating on several major roads, highways, bridges and designated areas, while Rivers State has also imposed restrictions in some areas.

Meanwhile, Wike also raised concerns over the increasing presence of beggars and destitute persons in Abuja.

He said efforts to remove them from the streets had not provided a lasting solution, as many continued to return after being taken away.

“Each time we take them out, they’re coming again. Each time you take them out, they’re coming again,” he said.

Wike questioned the sustainability of providing accommodation and feeding for people who migrate to Abuja from neighbouring states, saying the FCT could not continue to bear the cost.

He said the administration would instead seek to return such persons to their places of origin.

“In the next one month… I know Abuja is in the centre, bounded by four states. So it’s a big problem, but we’ll do the best we can,” he said.