Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom State has restricted the operation of commercial motorcycles, popularly called Okada, and tricycles, popularly known as Keke, in Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency of the state from 6pm to 7am.
The Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem, said this in a statement in Uyo on Friday.
Ekuwem said in Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency, comprising Ikot Ekpene, Essien Udim and Obot Akara Local Government Areas, the tricycles and motorcycles will not operate from 6pm and 7am daily.
Ekuwem said the restriction became necessary in view of an increase in frequency of criminal activities within the three local government areas, which has caused the lives of innocent lives, property and security personnel.
The SSG explained that the perpetrators of these dastardly acts operate using motorcycles and tricycles.
He said: “In keeping with his core mandate of protecting the lives and property of our citizens and security personnel, Governor Emmanuel has directed an immediate restriction on the operations of motorcycles and tricycles in Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency from the hours of 6pm to 7am daily, with effect from Friday, March 26.
“Governor Emmanuel appreciates the service of all our law enforcement agencies and urges them to intensify their security patrol and duties, especially in the vulnerable areas in particular and the entire federal constituency in general.”
Ekuwem urged residents of Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency to see the painful decision as a necessary step towards safeguarding their lives and property.
The SSG also said the restriction would be in force until further notice.
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