***Says ,We Have Legal Backing to Crush Violators’ Motorcycles
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has reiterated its commitment to the enforcement of restrictions on commercial motorcycle operations within Abuja, declaring that its actions—including the impounding and crushing of seized motorbikes—are firmly backed by law.
This assurance was given on Tuesday by the Mandate Secretary of the FCTA Transportation Secretariat, Dr. Chinedum Elechi, during the public crushing of 601 motorcycles impounded for violating operational bans in designated areas of the capital.
“We are acting under valid regulations of the FCT. The most recent regulation, signed into law on January 1, 2023, by the immediate past FCT Minister, Mohammed Bello, clearly prohibits the use of motorcycles in certain areas. It’s illegal to operate them in these locations,” Elechi stated.
He emphasized that the operational restrictions on commercial motorcycles in over 45 locations within Abuja remain in full force and that enforcement would continue relentlessly.
Also speaking at the event, the Director of the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS), Dr. Abdullateef Bello, confirmed that Tuesday’s crushing exercise—the first of its kind in 2025—serves as a strong deterrent to violators.
“This has been our regular routine to uphold the ban initiated in 2006. Initially aimed at controlling traffic violations, it has now become more crucial due to the use of commercial motorcycles in aiding criminal activities,” Bello said.
He warned investors still venturing into the motorcycle transport business in the restricted areas to “think twice,” as enforcement will be sustained and intensified.
The Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations for the FCT Command, AC Mode Magawata, also weighed in, noting that the ongoing joint enforcement effort has significantly curbed crime in the territory.
“Commercial motorcycles have been used to facilitate various crimes in the FCT. This operation has helped reduce such threats, and we are committed to continuing,” Magawata said.
The FCTA reiterated that all violators will continue to face the full weight of the law, as the administration remains resolute in its mission to sanitize the city and protect residents.
