- Tinubu commissions 3,000 electric motorcycles in Borno
- Motorcycles remain banned in the state for security reasons
- Police confirm ban has not been lifted
- Residents demand clear explanation from government
Residents of Borno State were left puzzled on Saturday after President Bola Tinubu unveiled 3,000 electric motorcycles in the state, even though motorcycles,both electric and petrol-powered are still prohibited.
The commissioning took place during the President’s official visit to the state, where he also launched 500 tricycles, 100 electric cars, and 20 buses, all aimed at improving transportation and mobility.
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Speaking at the event, President Tinubu praised Governor Babagana Zulum, describing the initiative as a step towards easing transportation challenges, especially in rural communities.
“The electric vehicles, tricycles, and charging terminals will greatly improve mobility, convenience, and transportation efficiency,” Tinubu said.
However, the move immediately raised questions among residents, as the use of motorcycles has remained banned in Borno due to security concerns linked to insurgency activities.
On July 25, 2024, the Borno State Police Command reaffirmed the ban, warning that anyone found riding or possessing a motorcycle would be arrested.
In a statement signed by Police Public Relations Officer ASP Nahum Daso, the command said the decision was taken by the Borno State Security Council due to ongoing security challenges.
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“The Command has observed the continued use of motorcycles, especially electric bikes, and wishes to remind the public that the ban on motorcycles in the state still subsists,” the statement said.
Daso added that fuel stations were also barred from selling fuel to motorcyclists, warning that violators would be sealed and prosecuted.
Speaking to journalists on Monday, Daso confirmed that the ban remains fully in force.
“The ban has not been lifted. It was an executive order by the governor and remains under strict enforcement,” he said.
The Senior Technical Assistant to the Governor on Print and Digital Communications, Abdulrahman Bundi, also confirmed the position.
“If the police say the ban is still on, then that is our position. It simply means the ban remains,” Bundi stated.
Residents have since called on the government to clarify whether the newly commissioned electric motorcycles are exempt from the ban.
A Maiduguri resident, Ibrahim Hassan, said people expected an official announcement.
“How do you commission 3,000 bikes that are banned? Who will use them? We need clear information before spending our money,” he said.
Another resident, Alkali Adamu, questioned the decision in a social media post.
“The governor banned electric bikes months ago, yet the President commissioned them today. Who exactly is expected to use them?” he wrote.
While some residents welcomed the project, they said uncertainty remains.
“We appreciate the government’s efforts, but we need to know if the ban has been lifted or if only selected people can use the bikes,” said Umar Aminu, another resident.
As of press time, no official announcement has been made to clarify whether the electric motorcycles are exempt from the existing security ban
