The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has announced a ban on the operation of commercial tricycles (Keke) and motorcycles (Okada) in key parts of the Abuja metropolis, including Wuse, Garki, Maitama, Asokoro, and the Central Business District (CBD).
The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) said the measure is aimed at improving security, easing traffic congestion, and reducing road accidents, warning that violators of the directive would be arrested and prosecuted.
Speaking with journalists in Abuja on Tuesday, Wike said the decision was driven by the growing security challenges facing the nation.
“We are doing this not to cause a nuisance, but because of the security situation, which has become a major concern in our country. Bandits and other criminal elements often use motorcycles to carry out their activities. So, it is a serious problem,” he said.
The minister disclosed that he had directed the FCT Secretary to identify areas where the operation of tricycles and motorcycles would be restricted, noting that implementing such a policy across the entire FCT would be difficult.
“I have directed the Secretary to identify areas where the operation of tricycles (Keke) and motorcycles should be restricted. However, it will be difficult to enforce such restrictions across the entire Federal Capital Territory, especially within the city. They are currently working on that,” Wike stated.
Addressing the issue of street begging, Wike said the FCTA would also intensify efforts to remove destitute persons from the streets of Abuja, arguing that the capital city should not become a destination for beggars from neighbouring states.
“The issue of destitute beggars is another challenge. Each time we remove them from the streets, they return. People ask why we do not provide accommodation for them and their children. But how can we continue to do that? It would only encourage more people to come from places like Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger, and Kaduna. That is simply not sustainable. So, we try to return them to their states of origin,” he said.
The minister further revealed that the FCTA would step up enforcement operations, including night-time patrols, within the next month to strengthen security across the nation’s capital.
“Within the next month, we intend to intensify our operations, including those carried out at night. I understand that Abuja is the nation’s capital and is surrounded by four states, which makes the challenge even greater. Nevertheless, we will do the best we can,” Wike added.
The FCTA maintained that the restrictions form part of broader efforts to enhance public safety and maintain order within the Federal Capital Territory.
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