Residents of Borno State have expressed confusion following the commissioning of 3,000 electric motorcycles by President Bola Tinubu despite an existing ban on the use of motorcycles across the state.

The electric bikes were unveiled on Saturday during President Tinubu’s state visit to Borno. According to reports, the fleet commissioned includes 3,000 electric motorcycles, 500 tricycles, 100 cars, and 20 buses with a capacity of 42 seats each.

Speaking at the event, the President praised Borno State Governor Babagana Zulum and the people of the state, describing the initiative as a major boost to transportation and mobility, especially in rural communities. He noted that the electric vehicles, tricycles, and charging terminals would ease transportation challenges and support economic activities.

However, the commissioning has raised questions among residents due to the continued enforcement of a motorcycle ban in the state.

On July 25, 2024, the Borno State Police Command reaffirmed the prohibition on the use of motorcycles, including both electric and petrol-powered bikes, citing security concerns. The Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Nahum Daso, said the ban was imposed by the Borno State Security Council and warned that violators would be arrested.

The police also cautioned filling stations against selling petrol to motorcyclists, stating that any station found violating the directive would be sanctioned and sealed for prosecution.

Following the commissioning of the electric bikes, the police reiterated on Monday that the ban remains in force. According to Daso, the restriction was issued as an executive order by the governor and has not been lifted.

Similarly, the Senior Technical Assistant to the Governor on Print and Digital Communications, Abdulrahman Bundi, confirmed that the policy remains unchanged, noting that the position of the police reflects the state government’s stance.

The development has prompted calls from residents for official clarification.

An inhabitant of Polo in Maiduguri, Ibrahim Hassan, questioned the purpose of unveiling motorcycles that residents are prohibited from using, asking whether the bikes would be distributed or stored until the ban is lifted.

Another resident, Alkali Adamu, also expressed concern, questioning whether the commissioning implied a reversal of the ban. He described the situation as confusing and urged leaders to provide clear communication to the public.

While some residents welcomed the initiative, they also emphasized the need for clarity. Umar Aminu praised the government’s development efforts but said residents need to know whether the bikes will be made available to the public or restricted to specific users.

As of now, authorities have yet to announce any change to the existing motorcycle ban, leaving residents uncertain about the intended use of the newly commissioned electric bikes.