Governorship candidate of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Cross River State, Sir Arthur Jarvis Achibong, has criticised the state government’s ban on commercial motorcycle operations in Calabar metropolis, saying the policy has created hardship for many residents who depend on the means of transport for their daily activities.
Achibong, in a statement addressed to Cross River residents, said the recent protest by commercial motorcycle operators at 8 Miles, Calabar, was a reflection of their frustrations over what they described as constant harassment, arrests and seizure of their motorcycles.
He said, “Two days ago, at 8 Miles here in Calabar, our Okada riders staged a protest, not because they woke up looking for trouble, but because they said they are tired. Tired of being chased, tired of being hunted, tired of watching their motorcycles, their only source of livelihood, impounded off the roads.”
The politician acknowledged that the government had the right to regulate transportation within the metropolis but argued that adequate alternatives must be provided before enforcing such restrictions.
According to him, many residents in communities and inner streets outside the major city routes still rely on motorcycles because of the lack of accessible public transportation.
“Ask the market woman, how does she move her produce, those last few kilometres to the market, once the bus drops her off? Ask the man who lives in Ikot Efanga, where the minibus drops him on the highway by the junction, how does he reach his house?”
Achibong also raised concerns over the alleged fate of motorcycles seized by authorities, claiming that some riders had reported losing their bikes permanently after they were impounded.
He stated that “allegations are now circulating that impounded motorcycles are turning up for sale in certain parts of the state. Our people deserve to know exactly what happens to their impounded properties.”
He noted that many riders invest heavily in their motorcycles, which he described as their major source of income and means of supporting their families.
“A motorcycle costs about N1.4 million, both through higher purchases and community contributions most of the time,” Achibong said, adding that taking away such assets without providing alternatives could worsen economic hardship.
The ADC governorship candidate urged the state government to consider the human impact of its policies, stressing that many commercial riders are youths struggling to survive rather than criminals.
“These people are not criminals, they are survivors. You do not ban a mass livelihood on a Monday and expect it to have a new one by Tuesday.”
Achibong called for policies that balance road safety with economic realities, saying government decisions should serve as a bridge between authorities and citizens rather than create conflict.
He further promised that if elected governor, his administration would introduce policies aimed at improving livelihoods and putting more money in the hands of residents.
“with policies that put money back in your pockets, not seize it from your hands. This is the Cross River we shall build.”