Attacks – Plateau to go tough on Okada riders as govt reaffirms ban in Jos

2026-03-30 - 14:14

By Golok Nanmwa The Plateau State Government on Monday reiterated that the ban on commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada, within the Greater Jos Master Plan area remains fully in force and active. In a public notice, the government directed relevant agencies, including the Mobile Court and security operatives, to intensify patrols, prosecute offenders and enforce the restriction strictly. Hon. Davou Gyang Jatua, Commissioner for Transport, Plateau State, who signed the notice, urged members of the public to promptly report any suspicious movements of persons on motorcycles within the affected areas to security agencies. The notice comes in the wake of recent attacks in parts of Jos, heightening security concerns in the state capital and its environs. The statement also reads that the hours of operation for tricycle riders (Keke) within the Jos and Bukuru metropolis remain unchanged: 6:00 am to 7:00 pm daily. The Plateau State Government assured residents of its unwavering commitment to ensuring safety and providing efficient transport services across the state. “The appropriate government organs, Mobile Court and security operatives have been directed to conduct patrols, prosecute offenders and enforce the ban,” the statement emphasised. The ban on commercial motorcycles in Jos and Bukuru, originally enacted in 2012 under the Greater Jos Master Plan, has been repeatedly reinforced by successive administrations primarily for security and traffic management reasons. Authorities have often linked unregulated Okada operations to criminal activities, including attacks where gunmen use motorcycles for quick getaways. Residents have been advised to remain vigilant and cooperate with security agencies as enforcement ramps up. VANGUARD News