\n\nCommercial motorcycle and tricycle operators in Plateau State have continued to operate in parts of Jos and its surrounding communities despite restrictions imposed by the state government and enforced by security agencies to tackle rising insecurity.
Investigations across several parts of the Jos metropolis revealed that many riders, popularly known as Okada operators, as well as tricycle drivers, were still transporting passengers and goods beyond the approved hours, contrary to government directives.
The continued operations were observed in key locations, including Old Airport Junction, National Library area, Rayfield, Tudun Wada and neighbouring communities, where commercial motorcycles and tricycles remained active despite the restrictions.
The development has raised concerns among residents and security officials over the level of compliance with measures introduced by the state government to improve public safety and curb criminal activities.
The Plateau State Government had recently directed security agencies to strictly enforce restrictions on the movement of commercial motorcycles and tricycles within the Jos Greater Master Plan area. The decision followed growing security concerns and reports that criminal elements often use motorcycles to carry out attacks and escape from crime scenes.
Speaking on the enforcement exercise, the Public Relations Officer of the Plateau State Police Command, SP Alfred Alabo, reiterated that the restrictions remain valid and are backed by existing laws regulating the operations of commercial motorcycles and tricycles within designated areas of the state capital.
According to him, the directive is rooted in a 2010 law that prohibits the operation of commercial motorcycles within certain parts of the Jos Greater Master Plan area while also placing limitations on tricycle movements, particularly during evening hours.
Alabo stated that security agencies have continued to monitor compliance and carry out enforcement operations across the metropolis. He warned that operators who violate the directive risk arrest and prosecution in accordance with the law.
The police spokesperson, however, noted that enforcement alone may not be sufficient to achieve full compliance as long as residents continue to patronise commercial motorcycles within restricted areas.
He stressed that the cooperation of members of the public remains crucial to the success of the government’s security strategy, urging residents to avoid using motorcycles operating illegally within prohibited zones.
According to him, reducing demand for the services would significantly discourage operators from violating the restrictions and help security agencies achieve better results.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang had earlier instructed security agencies to intensify enforcement of the ban on commercial motorcycle activities within the Jos Greater Master Plan area as part of broader efforts to address security challenges confronting the state.
The government maintains that the restrictions are necessary to limit the movement of criminals who allegedly exploit motorcycles for quick mobility during attacks and other unlawful activities.
Authorities have repeatedly warned that anyone found violating the directive would face legal consequences, as the state government remains committed to strengthening security and safeguarding residents across Plateau State.
Despite the warnings, the continued presence of commercial motorcycles and tricycles in restricted areas suggests that enforcement challenges persist, raising questions about compliance levels and the effectiveness of ongoing efforts to curb insecurity through movement restrictions.
