Less than a day after announcing a ₦50,000 penalty for commercial motorcycle operators who violate newly introduced restrictions in parts of Umuahia, Aba, and Ohafia, the Abia State Government has revised the fine downward to ₦20,000.

The government has also postponed the commencement of enforcement from June 23 to June 29, 2026.

The development was contained in a public advisory issued on Wednesday by the Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, who said the government considered it necessary to clarify aspects of the policy regulating commercial motorcycle operations across the state.

In the statement titled “Abia State Govt Public Advisory on the Regulation of Commercial Motorcycle (Okada) Operations,” the government explained that the restrictions were introduced as part of efforts to improve public safety and strengthen security.

According to the statement, the measure was designed to protect lives and property and should be viewed as a security-driven initiative rather than a punitive action against any group.

The clarification followed an earlier announcement made by Kanu on Tuesday after the State Executive Council meeting, where he disclosed that the Abia State Harmonised Task Force, working alongside security agencies, would enforce the restrictions and that violators would face a ₦50,000 penalty.

Explaining the decision to review the fine, Kanu acknowledged the concerns raised by residents, particularly those whose livelihoods depend on motorcycle transportation.

“The government recognises that thousands of hardworking citizens depend on motorcycle transportation for their livelihood, and we fully appreciate the concerns this policy may raise for affected operators and their families,” he said.

He stressed that while the decision was difficult, the protection of lives and property remained the government's foremost responsibility.

“As a people-centred government, this was not an easy decision. However, the safety and security of our citizens must always remain paramount. No economic consideration can outweigh the value of human life.

“The primary responsibility of government is to ensure that residents can live, work, and move about in a safe and secure environment,” he added.

Kanu further clarified that the policy is not targeted at any ethnic group, community, or category of people but applies equally to all affected operators.

He said the objective is to enhance public safety, improve orderliness, and support ongoing efforts to tackle security challenges across the state.

The commissioner also assured residents that the government would implement the policy fairly and professionally while continuing consultations with stakeholders to minimise its impact on affected operators.

As part of the revised guidelines, the government announced that penalties would only take effect from Monday, June 29, 2026.

He stated that motorcycles previously impounded under the exercise would be released free of charge after 48 hours, subject to proper verification and documentation.

“The Twenty Thousand Naira (₦20,000) penalty shall only be enforced from Monday, June 29, 2026. Any penalty amount already collected before the effective commencement date shall be refunded accordingly,” the statement said.

The government also clarified that privately owned motorcycles would continue to operate freely, provided they are properly registered and documented. However, they will not be permitted to carry passengers.

Kanu disclosed that a toll-free complaints platform has been established to enable residents report any cases of extortion, misconduct, abuse, or other infractions by enforcement personnel.

He added that all motorcycles already impounded must be properly registered and documented before they can be released.

The government further directed all commercial motorcycle operators to wear the officially approved Abia State identification vest while operating within their designated areas.

In addition, all motorcycles, tricycles, and commercial vehicles operating in the state must be fully registered and documented in line with existing government regulations.

The state government appealed to residents, transport operators, community leaders, and other stakeholders to remain calm, cooperate with authorities, and support the policy in the interest of public safety.

“There is no cause for panic. This policy is about protecting lives, preserving peace, and building a safer Abia for everyone,” the statement concluded.