FCTA destroys 470 Okada for unauthorized operation in Abuja

The Federal Capital Territory Administration’s (FCTA) Joint Task Force destroyed more than 470 motorcycles impounded for operating illegally in Abuja on Thursday.

The taskforce impounded the okada during an operation that began at the Carwash Bus Stop in Lugbe and continued via Gosa, Bill Clinton Drive, Trademore Estate, Lugbe Junction, and Kubwa.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), nearly 400 motorcycles were previously confiscated and destroyed on August 31, during a similar operation for the same offense.

Mr Obokutom Nyah, Secretary, Transportation Secretariat, FCTA, told journalists during the exercise that the decision to crush the motorcycles was in line with the provisions of the law.

Nyah warned commercial motorcyclists to limit their operations to designated areas, stay clear of the city centre and stop constituting a security threat in the city.

He explained that there are areas designated for different kinds of vehicles, adding that commercial motorcycles are only allowed to operate in the suburbs.

“So, we encourage the operators to respect their boundaries, because if you cross the line, you will face the full wrath of the law,” he said.

Also, the Director, FCT Directorate of Road Traffic Services, Mr Abdulateef Bello, said that the number of motorcycles operating within the city was outrageous.

Bello said that the taskforce would extend its operations to night hours, adding that currently, between 200 and 400 motorcycles are being impounded on weekly basis.

He added that the taskforce was considering arresting residents that patronise motorcycles as part of efforts to strengthen the level of enforcement.

He advised residents against patronising motorcycles but should learn to walk short distances where possible, for their own safety.

The director further advised those investing in commercial motorcycle business to have a rethink, stressing that the FCTA would invest its resources to curtail them. (NAN)