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Abia State Governor, Alex Otti has approved the prohibition of commercial motorcycle operations, popularly known as “Okada,” within the metropolitan areas of Umuahia, Aba and Ohafia.
The State’s Commissioner for Information, Okay Kanu, who announced the ban on Saturday, said the ban takes effect from Monday, June 22, 2026.
The State government said that ban was part of the ongoing efforts to strengthen security, enhance public safety, improve traffic management, and promote a a well-organized transport system across the affected urban centres.
Consequently, Abia State government directed all commercial motorcycle operators in Umuahia, Aba and Ohafia directed to cease operations within the designated metropolitan areas on or before Monday.
Security agencies and relevant enforcement authorities were mandated to ensure strict compliance with this directive.
”Any individual or operator found violating this order shall be arrested, while the motorcycle involved shall be confiscated in accordance with the law.
“The Government calls on residents, transport operators, community leaders, and members of the public to cooperate fully with the authorities in the implementation of this directive, which is aimed at advancing the collective safety and development of the State”, Abia government said.
Gov. Alex Otti of Abia has described the death of a renowned Nollywood actor, Alexx Ekubo, as a profound loss to Abia, Nigeria’s entertainment industry and millions of admirers across the world.
Otti stated this on Thursday during the funeral service held in honour of the late actor at the Mary Slessor Technical College Ground in Arochukwu Local Government Area of the state.
The governor, represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr Caleb Ajagba, said that the late actor was more than an entertainer, noting that he served as a cultural ambassador who projected the image of the state and nation on the global stage.
He said that late Ekubo’s life exemplified resilience, creativity and excellence, adding that his success story remained a source of inspiration to young people.
“Alex possessed that rare gift of connecting with people through his performances.
“He brought joy to homes, inspired young people and demonstrated that with discipline, dedication and excellence, greatness is achievable.
“His success story remains a powerful testimony to the resilience, creativity and ingenuity that characterise the people of Abia State.
“He carried his roots with pride and never ceased to identify with the land of his birth.
“In him, the youth of our state found a role model who dared to dream and worked tirelessly to turn those dreams into reality,” Otti said.
The governor noted that although the actor’s death had created a vacuum in the Nigerian creative industry, his legacy and works would continue to inspire generations.
He urged the bereaved family, the people of Arochukwu and the entertainment industry to remain strong and take solace in God during the period of mourning.
In a sermon titled “Please Forgive God”, the Resident Pastor of Streams of Joy, Umuahia, Mrs Eno Jerry-Eze, reminded the congregation that nothing happens without God’s knowledge and permission.
Jerry-Eze urged people to continually examine their lives and prepare for the day when everyone would give account of their stewardship on earth.
In a tribute, the deceased’s elder sister, Mrs Kelechi Ekubo-Otusi, described her brother as humble, caring, loving and God-fearing, adding that he devoted his life to God and humanity.
The late Ekubo died in May at the age of 40 following complications arising from advanced metastatic kidney cancer.
He is survived by his wife, parents, siblings and other relatives.
