ABUJA MALL BLAST: FCT MINISTER BANS USE OF “POWER BIKES”

ABUJA MALL BLAST: FCT MINISTER BANS USE OF “POWER BIKES”

With the disclosure by security agents that one of the perpetrators of Wednesday’s bomb blast in Abuja rode on a power bike, Federal Capital Territory Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed, has directed the FCT Police Commissioner to promptly arrest and prosecute any person illegally using power bikes and motorcycles in the Federal Capital City, Abuja.

Motorcycles had for a long time been banned in the city, but users of power bike and private motorcycle owners were never affected by the earlier ban. This new directive, which was conveyed to the FCT Police Commissioner via a letter dated June 27, 2014 but signed by the FCT Permanent Secretary, Engr. John Chukwu, reminded him that the ban on the use of power bikes and motorcycles in the FCC was still in force.

He stated that the reminder was underscored by the fact that one of the suspects in the recent bombing at the EMAB Plaza, Wuse II District, Abuja was seen on a power bike by security agents. Senator Mohammed further directed that all security personnel using motorcycles should obtain permits from the FCT Commissioner of Police and the FCT transportation secretariat. He said, in addition, the officer should be properly kitted in their uniform and helmet.

The letter revealed the intention of the FCT administration to, as a matter of urgency evolve necessary byelaws and security protocols that will indicate minimal security requirements in private and public institutions as well as other congregational locations in the Federal Capital Territory for compliance and enforcement.

The administration will also embark on “Know Your Neigbour Campaign” as a veritable strategy to promote neighbourhood security awareness among residents