Senator Bassey Otu, Governor of Cross River State, has ordered an immediate ban on commercial motorcycles known as okadas in Calabar, the state’s capital.

The governor declared a ban on all commercial motorbikes in Calabar on Wednesday, according to a statement signed by his spokesman, Emmanuel Ogbeche.

The state administration cautioned in a news release that anyone discovered violating the guideline will have their motorcycle impounded and the perpetrator prosecuted in court.

According to the announcement, the okada ban in Calabar was implemented after extensive consultations with Cross River state security officials.

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“The Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, after due consultation with key security chiefs in the state has directed a total ban on the activities of all commercial motorcycles within the Calabar Metropolis,” the statement read in part.

“Those willing to use their motorcycles to earn a decent living are restricted only to remote areas away from the city center.”

The Cross River state government has also issued a strong warning to locals to refrain from vandalizing public assets such as lamps, lampposts, and traffic lights.

It further warned criminals to stop immediately because they will face the full wrath of the law.