Governor Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa has restricted movement of commercial motorcycles, known as Okada, in Yola and Girei local government areas.

“This directive is an executive order for direct response to the growing activities of criminals disrupting peace of the state,” said the statement. “The affected areas are Mamba, Yolde Pate and Ngurore communities of Yola South local government area and Viniklang and Federal Housing Estate in Girei local government area.”

The Adamawa governor added that the order “is with immidiate effect from 5:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.”

The directive is contained in a statement issued by the governor’s press secretary Hunwashi Wonosikou in Yola.

Mr Fintiri noted that the restriction was meant to curb rising crimes in affected communities.

“This order further reinforces Executive Order 1 of 2021 which categorises areas specifically mentioned in the Order,” it stated further.

Mr Fintiri described the activities of the miscreants as unacceptable, adding that they have become a threat to the peace, well-being, security and stability of the state politically and economically and must be curtailed.

He also mentioned that no responsible government would allow criminals to threaten the peace of its citizens.

The Adamawa governor assured asserted that all residents of Girei and Yola South local government areas must live free from thuggery, robbery, maiming and kidnapping and other criminal activities.

“The Executive Order prescribes a penalty of six months’ imprisonment with an option of N100,000 fine or both, in addition to forfeiting the motorcycle to the government if found guilty for violation of the order,” it warned. “The order also states that any person found on a motorcycle stationary or in motion, within the prohibited time whether as a rider or passenger shall be liable to prosecution.”

The Adamawa government, however, stated that ”only those with genuine reasons, such as seeking medical attention, providing care and assistance to the vulnerable or travelling for purpose of work classified as essential service are exempted, but must justify it as reasonable cause to the law enforcement agencies and the courts.”

Mr Fintiri directed police and other security agencies to arrest and prosecute any person “found contravening the executive order.”

(NAN)