… Government Begins Okada Ban Enforcement

Alex Otti’s administration intensifies rescue efforts, rolls out tougher transport regulations and unveils public complaint system to strengthen safety across the state.
The abduction of two school children by a suspected child trafficker in Umuosu Nsulu has cast fresh attention on public safety in Abia State, as the state government officially commenced enforcement of restrictions on commercial motorcycle operations in designated parts of Umuahia, Aba and Ohafia to curb insecurity and protect lives.

Speaking at a press briefing on following the State Executive Council meeting chaired by Governor Alex Otti at Government House, Umuahia.The Commissioner for Information Prince Okey Kanu, said the enforcement marks another decisive step in the administration’s comprehensive strategy to improve security and public order across the state.

Providing an update on the disturbing incident involving the missing pupils, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security Matters, Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah (Rtd.), disclosed that the government has activated a coordinated rescue operation involving security agencies within and outside Abia State.

According to Ubah, five pupils accepted a free ride from an unidentified tricycle operator shortly after school at Umuosu Nsulu. The suspect allegedly stopped on the way and sent three of the children to buy fuel before driving off with the remaining two.

Describing the incident as a classic case of child trafficking, Ubah said security agencies initially pursued intelligence that led operatives to Ngor-Okpala in Imo State, but the information turned out to be false.

He added that the Commissioner of Police has established collaboration with neighbouring state commands as investigations intensify.
“This is a matter of grave concern to every parent and to the government. We are deploying every available resource to ensure the children are found safely and those responsible are brought to justice,” he assured.

Against the backdrop of growing security concerns, Prince Kanu announced the commencement of enforcement of restrictions on commercial motorcycle operations in designated areas of the state.
He recalled that the exercise was originally scheduled to begin on June 22 but was postponed by one week to June 29 following Governor Alex Otti’s directive, allowing operators additional time to regularise their operations and comply with the new regulatory framework.

“The government understands that thousands of hardworking citizens depend on commercial motorcycles for their daily livelihood. However, the safety and security of the people must always remain paramount,” the Commissioner said.

He stressed that no economic or political consideration can outweigh the value of human life, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to ensuring that residents can live, work and move freely in a secure environment.
Prince Kanu announced that violators of the restriction would pay a ₦20,000 penalty, while impounded motorcycles would only be released after owners satisfy all statutory registration, documentation and verification requirements.

He clarified that privately owned motorcycles that are duly registered in Abia State remain exempted from the restriction but are prohibited from carrying passengers. Commercial operators permitted to operate within approved jurisdictions, he added, must wear officially approved Abia State Government identification vests.

The Commissioner further disclosed that all motorcycles, tricycles and commercial vehicles operating in the state must be properly registered and documented in line with government regulations.
To reinforce transparency during enforcement, the government has established a toll-free public complaints system through which residents can report cases of misconduct, extortion, abuse or any other infractions involving security personnel and members of the Abia State Harmonized Task Force.

Residents can access the toll-free lines on 0800000232, 08001235555 and 08002225242, while the Abia State Harmonized Task Force can be reached on 08067955559, 08050725566 and 09122223825.
Prince Kanu appealed to transport operators, community leaders and residents to cooperate with the authorities, noting that the policy is designed to protect lives, preserve public peace and create a safer environment for all.

The Commissioner also highlighted ongoing infrastructure development across the state, revealing that the Ministry of Works executed direct labour projects at 14 locations between June 16 and June 29, completing five road projects and adding another to its maintenance programme.
Among the completed projects are the 1.19-kilometre Obikabia–Umueleke Road (Phase One) in Isiala Ngwa North Local Government Area, the 550-metre Uzoma–Ohokobe–Afara-Ohokobe Road to Polycon Junction off Aba Road, Chief Nkoro Street to Udeagbala Road in Aba, rainy season maintenance works on Ojari Road in Arochukwu, and desilting works along Faulks Road in Aba.

He also announced the commencement of the Green Avenue Square project in Aba and disclosed that 24 additional road projects are currently under construction across the state, with contractors making significant progress.
“The state government remains resolute in delivering quality infrastructure while strengthening security and protecting the welfare of every resident,” Prince Kanu stated.

The Abia State Judicial Panel of Inquiry on the Recovery of Government Properties and Funds, led by Hon. Justice Florence Ikwuoma Duruoha-Igwe (Rtd), has paid a courtesy visit to the Vice-Chancellor of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Prof. Ursula Ngọzi Akanwa, commending her remarkable achievements within her first 100 days in office.

Speaking on behalf of the Panel, Hon. Justice Duruoha-Igwe described Prof. Akanwa as a disciplined, dedicated, intentional, and result-oriented administrator whose commitment to duty has always distinguished her. She noted that the Panel was not surprised by the impressive records already recorded by the Vice-Chancellor, recalling her exemplary service as a member of the Panel.

While congratulating Prof. Akanwa on her emergence as the 7th substantive Vice-Chancellor of MOUAU, the retired jurist said the delegation came to encourage her, celebrate her achievements, and assure her of their continued support.
“You demonstrated a strong zeal to learn, worked diligently, conducted thorough cross-examinations, stood firm on matters of principle, and exhibited integrity and fairness during your service on the Panel. We urge you to bring the same qualities to bear in your administration of the University,” she stated.

Responding, Prof. Akanwa expressed gratitude to the Abia State Government, led by Governor Alex Otti, for the confidence reposed in members of the Panel to serve the state. She noted that the assignment was not intended as an act of vendetta or witch-hunt, but rather a genuine effort to promote accountability, transparency, and good governance in the state.

The Vice-Chancellor also thanked the delegation for the visit and reflected on the strong bond, unity of purpose, integrity, and fairness that characterized the work of the Panel throughout its two-year tenure from 2023 to 2025.

Prof. Ursula Ngọzi Akanwa, the 7th Vice-Chancellor, Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike, served as a member of the Abia State Judicial Panel of Inquiry on the Recovery of Government Properties and Funds inaugurated by Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti on June 27, 2023, and concluded its assignment in September 2025.

The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting menstrual health, dignity, and equal opportunities for girls and women, calling on stakeholders to work collectively towards ending the stigma, myths, and barriers associated with menstruation.

Speaking at the 2026 World Menstrual Health and Hygiene Day celebration held in Umuahia, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Dr. Mrs. Maureen Aghukwa, said menstrual health remains a critical issue that impacts education, public health, gender equality, and human dignity.

Addressing participants at the event, Dr. Aghukwa noted that although menstruation is a natural and healthy part of life, many girls and women still face significant challenges in accessing sanitary products, accurate menstrual health information, and adequate sanitation facilities.
According to her, such challenges often affect the confidence, health, education, and overall well-being of girls and women, making it imperative for governments and communities to take deliberate action.

The Commissioner stated that under the leadership of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, the Abia State Government remains committed to creating an environment where every girl can thrive without discrimination or disadvantage because of her menstrual cycle.
“Menstrual health is not merely a women’s issue; it is a matter of human dignity, public health, education, and social justice,” she emphasized.

Dr. Aghukwa disclosed that the Ministry of Women Affairs has continued to champion policies and programmes aimed at improving the welfare of women and girls across the state. She noted that through partnerships with development agencies, civil society organizations, schools, healthcare providers, and community leaders, efforts are being intensified to expand access to menstrual hygiene education and essential sanitary products.
She encouraged young girls to embrace their womanhood with confidence and never feel ashamed of a natural biological process, urging them to seek accurate information, maintain proper hygiene practices, and freely ask questions whenever guidance is needed.

The Commissioner also appealed to parents, teachers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to create safe and supportive environments where open discussions on menstrual health can thrive.
She stressed that breaking harmful misconceptions and cultural silence around menstruation is essential to empowering girls and enabling them to achieve their full potential.

“As we commemorate this important day, let us renew our commitment to ensuring that no girl misses school, loses confidence, or suffers indignity because of menstruation,” she said.
Dr. Aghukwa further called on all stakeholders to prioritize menstrual health and hygiene in homes, schools, workplaces, and communities, describing it as a shared responsibility that requires sustained advocacy and collective action.
She expressed appreciation to development partners, sponsors, organizations, and participants whose support continues to advance the cause of menstrual health awareness and gender inclusion in Abia State.

The World Menstrual Health and Hygiene Day celebration brought together government officials, students, teachers, healthcare professionals, civil society groups, and community leaders in a united effort to promote menstrual dignity and ensure that every girl has the opportunity to live, learn, and succeed without barriers.
The event ended with a renewed call for greater awareness, improved access to menstrual hygiene products, and stronger support systems for girls and women across Abia State.