Niger Restricts Movements of Motorcycles, Tricycles

By Laleye Dipo

The Niger State Government has restricted the movement of motorcycles and tricycles in the state, a policy which took effect from Friday, April 10, 2021.

The state government has also alerted other vehicle owners in the state that security operatives have been directed to embark on “Stop and Search” with immediate effect.

The government’s directive was contained in a statement by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Alhaji Ahmed Ibrahim Matane, in Minna on Friday night.

Matane said government’s action followed the “fracas and youth restiveness in Minna metropolis that led to the looting and destruction of properties which affected the peace of the city”.

Matane said government thought it wise to quickly nip in the bud all forms of disturbances by restricting the movement of commercial motorcycles otherwise known as Okada and the operators of tricycles popularly known as Keke NAPEP from 9 pm to 6 am.

The statement further said that vehicles operating in the state must now comply with laid down traffic rules and regulations which include the use of reflective jackets and number plates, among others.

Matane said: “There will be stop and search of other vehicles that are allowed movements within the period by security agents.

“The state government warns operators of commercial motorcycles and tricycles to comply strictly with the directive as failure to do so will face the full wrath of the law.

“Security agencies, Vehicle Inspection Officers(VIOs), Federal Road Safety Corps 0fficials and other road marshals are enjoined to ensure effective and strict compliance/enforcement of these guidelines to safeguard the lives and property of every peace-loving person in the state.”

On Tuesday and Wednesday some youths from two wards in Minna metropolis engaged each other in fierce battle using dangerous weapons on each other resulting in many of them including a policeman sustaining injuries.

No arrest has been made in connection with the incident.