Government News Source|10 July 2019
The House of Assembly has called on the State Government to direct relevant Agencies to enforce the ban on commercial Motor Cycles in the State capital.
The House took this resolution after considering a motion moved by Rt. Hon. Matthew Olory, representing Akamkpa I who bemoaned the high rate of accidents and deaths occasioned by the use of motor cycles for commercial purposes within Calabar metropolis.
Olory observed that, though the State Government had in the past banned commercial motor cyclists within the City, the practice was currently going on in some areas of the town including; Ekorinim Junction, Eight Miles and most parts of Calabar South LGA.
In the debate that ensued, Members who spoke for the Motion noted that commercial motor cyclists have increased the rate of kidnapping of citizens, theft and rape cases as well as other security challenges within the metropolis. They also noted that the State’s tourism drive will be truncated if commercial bikes are allowed to litter the streets of Calabar.
Members who spoke against the Motion, cited the harsh economic realities prevalent in the Country and the struggle for survival as well as lack of transportation for citizens living in some interior areas as a factor for the presence of the commercial Motor Cycles and suggested that enforcement of the ban should be extended until alternative means of transportation is provided for these citizens.
The Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Eteng Jonah Williams noted that the ban which had been in existence since October 25, 2010 had reduced the rate of accidents in the State capital.
He directed the Clerk of the Assembly, Barr. Bassey Ekpeyong to forward the resolution to the Governor for implementation.