By Our Reporter
Human rights lawyer and Legal Practitioner, Barrister Hamza N Dantani, has expressed concerns over the recent ban on electric bikes and motorcycles, in Borno state, by the Borno state police Command, saying that it could impact negatively on the economy of the state
In an open letter to Umar Zulum, the executive governor of Borno state , dated November, 13, obtained by our reporter, Dantani, an Abuja based legal practitioner and human rights activist , from Borno Central , Federal constituency, while , commending , the governor Zulum, for his exemplary and pro- people policies, which according to him have continually fostered growth and prosperity, which the citizens are deeply appreciative , drew the attention of the governor to the actions of the police command .
” Recently , the Borno state police Command issued a statement, signed by the Police public relations officer, ( PRO), ASP Nuhum Daso, which said the Command has observed the flagrant use of Motorcycles , especially electric bikes in the state and wishes to remind the general public that the ban on motorcycles in the state still subsists”
” The Command said the decision was taken at the Borno state security council meeting based on the security challenges in the state and stated further that members of the public are advised to adhere to the order, and person found in possession of electric Car or patrol powered motorbikes will be arrested for violating the order”
The police Dantani, further stated in his open letter to governor Zulum, warned that ” Filling Stations to desist from selling Petrol to Customers on motorcycles as they will be sanctioned and prosecuted”
Dantani, implored Governor Zulum, to reconsider the ban as it imposes considerable hardship on the masses.
According to the human rights lawyer,
” Electric Motorcycles have emerged as a lifeline for many residents, providing an affordable and efficient mode of transportation amidst the escalating cost of fuel, for countless families.
This electric bikes are not just a means of getting from one place to another but a crucial aspect daily life that alleviates the financial burden of conventional transportation. Moreover, electric motorcycles offers significant environmental benefit, they are pollution free , contributing to cleaner and healthier environment.
Their ease of movement through congested areas and reduce the time spent navigating traffic ” he emphasised
Dantani, states that while he and other citizens and supporters of the state government recognize the enormous task of security challenges in the state,
also proposed the following measures to ensure adequate security and the contributions of motorcycles to economy of the state , through the registration mechanism.
” The system would require individuals to register their electric Motorcycles and provide full identification, thereby creating robust records that can aid in security efforts, not only would this improve safety, but could also serve as a new revenue stream for the state, positively impacting our economic wellbeing”
The registration fee could also contribute to state fund thus providing an economic boost while ensuring the use of Motorcycles monitored and registered in a manner that addresses security concerns
