Borno electric bikes commission sparks confusion as President Tinubu unveils bikes while state ban remains in force
Residents of Borno State have expressed confusion following the commissioning of 3,000 electric bikes by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, despite an existing ban on motorcycle use across the state.
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The commissioning, which took place during the President’s state visit on Saturday, also included 500 tricycles, 100 cars, and 20 42-seater buses.
President Tinubu commended Governor Babagana Zulum and the people of Borno, saying the initiative would improve mobility and convenience, especially in rural communities. He said, “The electric vehicles, the tricycles, the charging terminals in their thousands ease the problems of mobility and transportation economy.”
However, the move appears to contradict a July 25, 2024 statement by the Borno State Police Command, which reiterated the ban on motorcycles, including electric or petrol-powered bikes.
ASP Nahum Daso, the police spokesperson, warned that violators would be arrested, and filling stations selling fuel to motorcyclists would face sanctions.
ASP Daso confirmed on Monday that the ban remains in force, stating, “As of now, the status quo remains; the enforcement of the ban on electric and petrol-powered bikes continues. At the time, it came as an executive order from the governor, and he has not changed it.”
Similarly, Abdulrahman Bundi, Senior Technical Assistant to the Borno State governor on Print and Digital Communications, told PUNCH Online that the ban is still in effect.
Residents have voiced concern over the apparent contradiction between the presidential commissioning and the ongoing ban.
Ibrahim Hassan, a resident of Polo in Maiduguri, said, “How will you come and commission 3,000 motobikes that you have banned? They should clarify it officially so that we can know if to go ahead and buy it with our money.”
Alkali Adamu, another resident, queried the program on social media, asking whether the President’s action implies that the ban has been lifted. He said, “Unfortunately, our leaders often take actions that create confusion among the public.”
Umar Aminu, while appreciating the initiative, called for clear communication to remove uncertainty.
“We sincerely appreciate our governor for the many projects in the state, particularly the electric bikes he recently unveiled. However, we are worried about whether the government will only allow specific people to use such bikes or if the ban has been lifted,” he said.
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The commissioning has highlighted the need for clarity on government policies to ensure residents understand who can benefit from such initiatives.
