Residents of Borno State are expressing confusion following the unveiling of 3,000 electric bikes by President Bola Tinubu, even as the state maintains its ongoing ban on motorcycle use.
During a state visit on Saturday, President Tinubu inaugurated a fleet of electric vehicles that included 3,000 bikes, 500 tricycles, 100 cars, and 20 42-seater buses.
Speaking at the event, the President praised Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, and the people of the state, highlighting the initiative’s potential to improve mobility, especially in rural communities.
“The electric vehicles, tricycles, and the thousands of charging terminals ease the problems of mobility and transportation economy,” the President said.
However, the Borno State Police Command has reiterated that the ban on motorcycles—including electric and petrol-powered bikes—remains in force.
The prohibition, originally issued on July 25, 2024, was part of a decision by the Borno State Security Council to address persistent security challenges.
Police spokesperson ASP Nahum Daso stated,“The command has observed the flagrant use of motorcycles, especially electric bikes, in the state. We wish to remind the public that the ban still subsists. Any person found in possession of electric or petrol-powered motorcycles will be arrested. Filling stations are also warned against selling petrol to motorcyclists; offenders will be sanctioned and prosecuted.”
When contacted on Monday, ASP Daso confirmed the ban was still being enforced,
“As of now, the status quo remains. The enforcement on the ban of electric and petrol-powered bikes continues. The order came as an executive directive from the governor, and it has not been changed.”
Governor Zulum’s Senior Technical Assistant on Print and Digital Communications, Similarly, Abdulrahman Bundi, told PUNCH:“This is a police issue. If the police confirm the ban is ongoing, that is our position—it simply means it is still in force.”
The simultaneous unveiling of the bikes by the President and the enforcement of the ban has left residents puzzled.
Many are seeking official clarification from the state government.
Speaking our correspondent, a resident of Polo, Maiduguri, Ibrahim Hassan, said,“How will you come and inaugurate 3,000 motorbikes that you have banned? Who will they be shared with, or are they to be kept until the ban is lifted? The government should clarify so we know if we can buy them.”
Alkali Adamu expressed similar concerns on Facebook.
“A few months ago, Governor Zulum banned the use of electric bikes in Maiduguri. Today, the President unveils them. Who is expected to use these bikes? Does this imply the ban has been lifted? Our leaders often act in ways that create confusion for the public.”
Meanwhile, Umar Aminu appreciated the project but called for clarification.
“We sincerely appreciate our governor for the many projects in the state, particularly the electric bikes. However, we are concerned whether only specific people will be allowed to use them, or if the ban has been lifted. We need to know before we spend our money.”
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