We’re Upholding the Law By Crushing Impounded Commercial Bikes -FCTA

In a bid to reinforce the ban on commercial motorcycles, commonly known as “Okada,” within the city centre of Abuja, the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS) under the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) recently conducted an operation to impound and crush 400 illegally operating motorcycles. This move, according to Mrs. Deborah Osho, the Head of Operations at DRTS, was in strict compliance with the provisions of the law. According to her, the ban on Okada operations within the city centre of Abuja has been in effect since 2006, as directed by the Federal Capital Territory Road Transport Regulation of 2005. This regulation designates specific areas where Okada riders are permitted to operate, excluding the city center districts, including Wuse, Central Business District, Maitama, Asokoro, and others. “The enforcement of this ban became necessary due to several concerns. Okada operators had been associated with security threats, quick getaways from crime scenes, kidnappings, snatching valuables, mobile phone theft, and a rising number of accidents within the city. “Therefore, the decision to crush impounded Okada motorcycles aligns with the law, which provides for such action against motorcycles seized for constituting security threats or those impounded with a court forfeiture order. “Despite prior sensitization and awareness campaigns conducted even before the ban in 2006, Okada operators within the city centre continued to defy the regulations. Authorities have also held meetings with Okada leadership to emphasize the ban and its consequences for non-compliance,” Osho explained in an interview. She said that to strengthen the enforcement of the ban and address issues of alleged corruption in the seizure process, the FCTA amended the ban to include the forfeiture of impounded commercial motorcycles to the government. “This approach aims to prevent officials from collecting bribes and releasing the motorcycles back onto the streets. Instead, the impounded motorcycles would be crushed and sold to recycling companies, with the proceeds deposited into a government account. “The decision to crush impounded Okada motorcycles reflects the government’s commitment to upholding the law, ensuring public safety, and minimizing security threats within the city centre. It also serves as a deterrent to both operators and potential buyers of these impounded motorcycles,” she explained further. She concluded by saying that the recent operation to impound and crush illegal commercial motorcycles in Abuja’s city centre is a clear demonstration of the FCTA’s determination to enforce the ban on Okada operations in designated areas.

Security Threats: Nigeria’s Police Chief plans Special Intervention Squad

The Acting Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has unveiled a strategic initiative to establish a Special Intervention Squad (SIS) aimed at addressing security challenges across the country. Egbetokun made this announcement during a courtesy call on Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State at the Government House on Saturday. Egbetokun sought the Kano state government’s support for the success of this initiative, as Kano is one of the chosen pilot states for the implementation of the Special Intervention Squad. He explained, “We are introducing the Special Intervention Squad (SIS) to swiftly respond to crises and violent crimes in Nigeria. This dedicated squad will be readily deployable to manage these challenges.” The IGP emphasized that the effectiveness of the new squad hinges on the cooperation and support extended by the Kano state government. He assured that the squad would consist of well-trained personnel, equipped with modern facilities, and provided with adequate remuneration to effectively combat security threats. Addressing Governor Yusuf, Egbetokun stated, “We have selected Kano state as a pilot state for this program. The success of this initiative largely depends on the support we receive from Your Excellency. I humbly urge you to consider this as a request from the Nigerian Police to Governor Yusuf.” In response, Governor Yusuf praised the commitment demonstrated by the current police management in tackling challenges like banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery. He commended the positive impact of effective policing in Kano state, contributing significantly to the reduction of security issues since the new administration took office. Yusuf reiterated the state government’s commitment to support the police in their efforts to maintain law and order. He emphasized the positive relationship between the government and police authorities, highlighting joint efforts to address various security concerns. The governor also called on the IGP to extend support in the state’s fight against drug abuse, armed robbery, and other criminal activities. He expressed appreciation for the ongoing efforts by the police to combat kidnapping on both the state and national levels. The collaboration between the police and the Kano state government underscores the commitment to enhancing security and fostering peace in the region.