Residents of Gombe State have expressed strong dissatisfaction over a recent directive by the state police command restricting the use of motorcycles between 7 pm and 6 am.
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The restriction, aimed at curbing rising incidents of phone snatching and violent crimes, also bans the use of certain motorcycle horns and the carrying of dangerous weapons at public gatherings.
The move follows a disturbing rise in attacks by criminal gangs operating at night, including a recent incident where a 45-year-old businessman, Ahmed Aliyu Umar, was killed by suspected phone snatchers. Reports indicate that over 20 people have been killed or attacked in Gombe metropolis in the past month alone, with criminals often moving in groups and armed with weapons.
While the police say the restriction is meant to protect lives and restore order, many residents believe it could bring unintended consequences. They argue that the ban will increase hardship for law-abiding citizens who depend on motorcycles for their daily transportation and income, especially commercial riders.
Some fear the policy could lead to job losses, push more people into poverty, and even encourage new forms of crime as people seek alternative means to move around.
Residents are calling on the authorities to review the decision and adopt a more balanced approach that tackles insecurity without placing further strain on the livelihoods of the public.
