The Executive Chairman of Ukwa West Local Government Area, Hon. Pastor Dike Briggs Nwankwo, has announced new restrictions on commercial motorcycle operations as part of measures to tackle the growing insecurity in the area.
The new directives, which will take effect from Thursday, July 2, 2026, were unveiled in a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman, Chidi Gift Onyedikachi, following consultations with the Ukwa West Commercial Motorcycle Operators’ Union, security agencies, and relevant state authorities.
According to the statement, the decision was prompted by recent security incidents, including the killing of commercial motorcycle operators, theft of motorcycles, and other criminal activities threatening public safety within the local government.
Under the new regulations, commercial motorcycle operators will only be permitted to operate between 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. daily. The council said the restriction is aimed at curbing criminal activities often associated with nighttime operations while improving security across the area.
As part of the security measures, the local government, in collaboration with the Commercial Motorcycle Operators’ Union, will commence the profiling and registration of all commercial motorcycle operators to establish a comprehensive database for proper identification and effective security monitoring.
The council also directed all motorcycle operators to relocate their loading and parking points to the designated area in front of the market, in line with an agreement reached with the union leadership. The move is expected to eliminate traffic congestion around major junctions and ensure the free flow of vehicles.
The statement warned that any operator found violating the new directives, including operating beyond the approved hours, would have his motorcycle impounded, while the offender would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The Chairman appealed to commercial motorcycle operators and residents of Ukwa West to cooperate with the new measures, stressing that the restrictions are intended to safeguard lives and property and restore public confidence in the area’s security.
The local government reaffirmed its commitment to working with security agencies and other stakeholders to ensure a safer and more secure environment for residents.
