Cross River State government has banned commercial motorcyclists popularly known as okada from operating in the Calabar metropolis.
Governor Prince Bassey Otu’s chief press secretary, Emmanuel Ogbeche, said the decision was taken to create a safe and secure Cross River. Those caught breaking the directive will face prosecution.
The statement read;
“His Excellency Senator Prince Bassey Otu, after due consultation with key security chiefs in the state, has directed as follows: A total ban on the activities of all commercial motorcyclists within the Calabar metropolis.
“Those willing to use their motorcycles to earn a decent living are restricted only to remote areas away from the city centre.
“Anyone caught going against this directive will have the motorcycle impounded and the offender prosecuted.”
The state government also warned that those caught vandalizing public facilities such as street lights, lamp posts, and traffic lights will be punished.