UMUAHIA, Nigeria – The Abia State Government has officially prohibited the operation of motorcycles, popularly referred to as ‘Okada’, within its capital, Umuahia, and the bustling commercial hub, Aba.
The directive was communicated in an official announcement made available to the press on Sunday, August 13, 2023.
The statement, which emanated from the desk of Mr. Kazie Uko, the Chief Press Secretary to Governor Alex Otti, however, did not cite the reasons leading to the ban.
Set to take effect from Monday, August 14, 2023, the government has made clear its intentions of strict enforcement.
“From Monday onward, any motorcycle observed on the streets of Umuahia and Aba, being used for transportation will be seized by security operatives,” the statement cautioned.
Furthermore, the statement highlighted that the security agencies in the state have received explicit instructions to apprehend any individual found flouting this new regulation, potentially leading to subsequent legal actions against them.
The state government has called upon all residents and stakeholders to duly adhere to this directive for public safety and order.
Governor Alex Otti Calls for Support to Tackle Abia State’s N200 Billion Debt
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State has raised alarm over the financial situation of the state, stating that it’s in a “deep hole” due to huge debts.
He called on citizens to rally behind the government to overcome the challenges that lie ahead.
During a thanksgiving church service on Sunday, June 18, 2023, the governor made this statement for the newly sworn-in member representing the Ikwuano/Umuahia federal constituency in Abia State at the House of Representatives, Obi Aguocha.
The event took place at Okaiuga Central School Nkwoegwu Ohuhu in Umuahia North local government area of Abia State and was attended by prominent personalities, friends, political associates, and supporters of the federal lawmaker.
Governor Otti pointed out that the previous state government, which was controlled by the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, left Abia State saddled with debts totaling N200 billion.
He expressed commitment on the part of the current administration to salvage the state from this debt burden, attributing the financial crisis to the misplaced priorities of the previous administration.
Addressing concerns over the delay in constituting the state executive council since his inauguration, Governor Otti revealed that the full constitution of the state executive council would be announced before the end of June.
Furthermore, he stated that the government is set to commence the payment of confirmed salary arrears and noted that retirees from the state service are owed several years of unpaid pensions and entitlements.
Governor Otti added, “We have started a forensic audit of the pensioners, to ensure the right people are paid since there were uncovered fictitious figures and numbers that cannot be confirmed.”
He appealed for the patience and support of the people of Abia State and asserted that the era of corrupt practices by public officials without consequences is over.
The Governor vowed to ensure accountability and transparency in the management of the state’s resources.
