By Paul Joseph
The Federal Government has unveiled fresh security measures in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), announcing plans to restrict the operations of commercial motorcycles (Okada) and tricycles (Keke Napep) in strategic parts of Abuja following heightened security concerns.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike disclosed the decision during his monthly media briefing, revealing that intelligence reports from security agencies linked the growing use of commercial motorcycles to criminal activities, including banditry, armed robbery and other violent crimes.
According to Wike on Tuesday, the move followed recommendations by the FCT Security Council after security chiefs reviewed the prevailing security situation and advised the administration to introduce targeted restrictions in locations considered vulnerable to criminal operations.
He said motorcycles had increasingly become a preferred means of transportation for criminal elements because of their speed and ability to navigate difficult terrain.
“Beyond constituting a nuisance, they have become a security threat. Security reports indicate that criminals and bandits often rely on motorcycles to carry out their operations,” the minister stated.
Wike stressed that the administration was not imposing a total ban across the FCT, explaining that motorcycles and tricycles remain an essential means of transportation for residents in satellite towns and rural communities.
Instead, he said the restrictions would apply to selected areas, particularly within the Abuja city centre and other locations identified by security agencies as high-risk zones.
He added that security agencies have been directed to determine the exact locations where the restrictions will be enforced, while the FCT Administration has approved the logistics required for effective implementation.
The minister also raised concerns over the increasing number of beggars and destitute persons in Abuja, describing the trend as a persistent challenge despite repeated repatriation exercises.
According to him, Abuja’s proximity to Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger and Kaduna states enables many of those removed from the city to return within a short period.
Wike dismissed suggestions that the government should establish shelters and feeding programmes for beggars, arguing that such welfare initiatives could attract more people to the capital.
He reaffirmed the FCT Administration’s commitment to working with security agencies to strengthen public safety, preserve law and order, and ensure residents can go about their daily activities without fear.
Meanwhile, activities at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja were abruptly suspended on Tuesday following reports of a suspected terrorist threat targeting the facility.
The shutdown affected sporting activities and access to the complex as security personnel intensified surveillance around the stadium pending further assessment.
Although authorities are yet to officially confirm the nature of the threat or provide details of the intelligence, the temporary closure is understood to be a precautionary measure aimed at safeguarding lives and critical infrastructure while security agencies continue investigations.
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