The Rivers state government has given a bitter Valentine’s Day gift to commercial motorcyclists in the state.

Governor, Nyesom Wike, has banned the nighttime operation and commercial activities of the motorcyclists, popularly known as ‘Okada riders’.

Henceforth, the motorcyclists will not be allowed to operate between 5 p.m. and 8 a.m. daily in four local government areas of the state for security reasons.

The ban in the four local government areas- Abua/Odual, Ahoada East, Ahoada West and Ogba/Egbema /Ndoni (ONELGA)- takes effect on Sunday, February 14.

A statement conveying this directive, was issued by Simeon Nwakaudu, Special Assistant to the Rivers State Governor on Electronic Media.

“Okada operators are prohibited from operating between 5pm and 8am daily in four local government areas of the state for security reasons. Governor Wike has directed security agencies to enforce the ban.”

“The governor regrets any inconveniences the ban will cause residents, businesses and commercial motorcyclists in these local government areas. He, however, called on all stakeholders in the mentioned local government areas to cooperate with the state government and security agencies to improve the security situation in their communities.”