The Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State has announced new regulations for commercial motorcycle (okada) and tricycle (keke) operators, including a ban on the use of face masks while on duty.
In a statement signed by the council’s secretary, Hon. Raymond Overah, and released on Tuesday, October 2, the new directives are aimed at enhancing public safety, maintaining order, and improving transport operations across the LGA.
The new rules, which take effect in 30 days, restrict okada operations to between 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. daily. Riders are also required to wear reflective vests with clearly printed Area Code Numbers.
“Any okada rider found wearing a face mask while on duty shall be arrested immediately,” the council warned.
For tricycle operators, the permitted hours are from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., and each vehicle must display a valid and visible Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) Number. The statement further advised passengers not to board any keke without a visible VIO Number and directed operators to ensure their rain covers are properly tied during rainfall.
Violators of the new directives risk a seven-day detention. The council also issued a strong security warning, stating, “Any person caught stealing within the ATP premises shall be shot on sight,” while urging riders, unions, and residents to adhere strictly to the new measures.
In a related incident, operatives of the Delta State Police Command arrested four suspected armed robbers and drug peddlers in Asaba.
Police spokesperson SP Bright Edafe confirmed the arrests, revealing that the suspects were apprehended following a robbery reported on October 1, 2025.
“On October 1, 2025, the DPO B Division Asaba, CSP Edewor Akponegware, led his surveillance team in response to a distress call about a robbery incident in the BONSAAC area, where a female victim was robbed at gunpoint by two suspects,” Edafe said.
He added that investigations were ongoing and the suspects would be charged to court upon completion of the probe.
