Sapele Lifts Curfew on Okada, Keke Operators After Public Outcry

The Sapele Local Government Council in Delta State has lifted the time restrictions earlier imposed on commercial motorcyclists (Okada) and tricycle operators (Keke), following widespread criticism from residents, transport unions, and community stakeholders.

The announcement was contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the Secretary to the Local Government, Raymond Overah.

According to the statement, Okada and Keke operators are now free to operate without time limits, effectively reversing the curfew introduced in the council’s circular of October 6, 2025.

Overah said the decision was reached after “careful deliberation and a review of the current security and economic situation,” adding that the council is committed to maintaining peace while allowing businesses to thrive.

“This decision reflects our collective commitment to promoting peace, order, and economic activity while ensuring that all transport operators continue to conduct themselves responsibly and lawfully,” the statement read.

While lifting the curfew, the council announced fresh operational guidelines for transport operators.
It directed that:

. All Okada riders must wear reflective vests with clearly written identification numbers.
. All tricycles must display valid Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) numbers.
. Any Okada rider wearing a face mask while on duty will be arrested immediately.

The council urged operators to obey traffic regulations, maintain discipline, and cooperate with security agencies to sustain the existing peace.

The reversal comes barely a month after the initial restrictions sparked backlash across Sapele. The earlier order had limited Okada operations to between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m., and Keke operations to between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m., drawing criticism from residents, civil society actors, and transport workers.

Youth activist Utseoritselaju Ayo had warned that the curfew would worsen economic hardship, hurt nightlife-dependent businesses, and potentially promote extortion by security personnel.

Many residents have since hailed the latest directive as a “listening decision” and “a victory for the people.”

A tricycle operator in the Amukpe area told our correspondent that the new policy brings relief.

“We thank the council for hearing our cries. People were really suffering because of the restriction. Now we can work freely, but we’ll make sure to obey the rules,” he said.