The Isoko South Local Government Council of Delta State has banned commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada, from operating between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. daily, effective October 1, 2026.
The council chairman, Friday Ovoke Warri, announced the directive in a statement issued on Thursday, describing the restriction as part of proactive security measures aimed at strengthening public safety and protecting lives and property ahead of the forthcoming general elections and the Yuletide season.
According to the statement, the Motorcycle (Okada) Riders Association, Isoko South, was formally notified of the new operating hours following a security meeting convened by the council on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
Under the directive, all commercial motorcycle operators in the local government are required to suspend operations at 10:00 p.m. and resume at 6:00 a.m. daily.
The council said the decision was taken after security concerns and measures to further safeguard residents were discussed at the meeting.
It urged affected operators and residents to comply fully with the directive, stressing that the measure was intended to support ongoing efforts by security agencies and the local government to maintain peace, security and public order across Isoko South.
The council also appealed to community leaders, residents and other stakeholders to cooperate with security agencies by providing useful information and supporting measures aimed at protecting lives and property.
Warri’s administration, the statement noted, has made security a priority, adding that the restriction was a preventive measure designed to complement the efforts of security agencies.
The council further assured commercial motorcycle operators that the directive was not intended to unnecessarily inconvenience legitimate businesses, but was introduced in response to identified security concerns during the specified period.
It called on all stakeholders to work together to ensure a safe and peaceful environment in Isoko South.