The Plateau State Government has seized at least 142 motorycles as part of renewed efforts to fully enforce the ban on commercial motorcycle operations within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis. Officials say the move is aimed at curbing rising security threats and promoting public safety in the capital area.
Speaking during a media briefing, the Commissioner for Transport, Hon. Jatau Gyang Davou, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to upholding the ban, which he said has been in place for decades under the Greater Jos Master Plan.
“This is not a new law,” Davou emphasized. “It is a policy rooted in urban planning and security. Most of the heinous crimes committed in the city were aided by motorcycles, allowing criminals to escape quickly and without a trace.”
Davou noted that while over 142 motorcycles have already been impounded, enforcement efforts will continue until total compliance is achieved. He clarified that the ban is permanent unless repealed by the Plateau State House of Assembly, and only private riders using proper safety gear are exempted. Commercial motorcycle operations remain strictly prohibited.
The commissioner also dismissed claims that the policy targets livelihoods, stating, “You cannot turn an illegal activity into a source of survival. What is being criminalized is not survival, but lawlessness.”
To cushion the impact, the government has introduced safer and more structured alternatives such as tricycles and the recently launched Tin City Metro Buses. Additionally, youth-focused initiatives like the Plateau Youth Agricultural Empowerment Programme (PLA-YEAP) have been established to redirect energy into productive ventures.
Brig. Gen. Gagji Goshwe Shipi (Rtd.), Senior Special Adviser on Security and Coordinator of Operation Rainbow, revealed that 43 motorcycles belonging to verified security personnel—with complete documentation—have been released, while others remain under legal review.
“Human beings naturally resist change, but we are managing it with patience and professionalism,” he said, urging the public to support the government’s efforts to create a safer urban environment.
Meanwhile, Arc. Hart Bankat, General Manager of the Jos Metropolitan Development Board (JMDB), linked the enforcement to a broader push for urban renewal. He said the successful introduction of Metro City Buses and upcoming reforms, including designated tricycle routes, were aimed at making Jos a safer and more livable city.
“There is no policy we are implementing that is not for the betterment of our people,” Bankat affirmed.
The seizure of the motorcycles signals a strong message from the government: security, order, and structured development remain top priorities in Plateau State’s evolving transport and urban policy landscape.
