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From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
The Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS), commonly known as the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO), has launched a vigorous crackdown on okada (commercial motorcycles) and tricycle operators flouting traffic bans in key Federal Capital Territory (FCT) districts, including Gudu, Guzape, and others.
Over 25 motorcycles were impounded during the operation, with officials anticipating more seizures as enforcement teams target additional restricted zones in the city centre. The FCT Joint Task Force (JTF), led by Head of Traffic Management and Control, Moses Anyebe, spearheaded the raids amid the yuletide season to restore order.
“What we are doing right away is to see how we keep the okada… away from the city centre,” Anyebe told reporters. “They’ve been having their way all through the city and taking possession of where their operation is not supposed to be. This is actually affecting traffic and causing mayhem.”
Anyebe stressed that while okada and tricycles are allowed for “last mile” services in approved suburbs, operators have repeatedly ignored warnings and invaded prohibited central routes. He justified the holiday timing as essential for public safety.
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“For them to have a joyful, festive period, we need to keep these miscreants away. The menace of okada operating within restricted areas is something you cannot overemphasise,” he added.
The official warned defiant riders against returning to banned areas, promising continued arrests. On the impounded bikes, Anyebe noted decisions rest with DRTS’s new leadership.
“We have a new sheriff in town, a new director. After the arrest, we will have a discussion with him as to what is the next line of action for the apprehended okada,” he said.
DRTS vows to sustain operations until the capital is fully “sanitised,” upholding its status as Nigeria’s administrative hub.
