The Kano State Ministry of Justice has restated its resolve to enforce the Motorcycling and Related Matters (Regulations) Law 2013 (1434 A.H.), which bars commercial motorcyclists from carrying passengers in metropolitan areas. Authorities say the renewed clampdown is a response to growing security concerns across the state.
Officials caution that offenders will face stiff penalties, insisting the enforcement drive is part of an ongoing campaign to safeguard lives and curb escalating crime within Kano city.
Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Abdulkarim Kabiru Maude, reminded residents—particularly commercial riders known as Achaba—that the legislation “remains in full force” and continues to prohibit passenger-carrying motorcycle operations in several metropolitan Local Government Areas.
The LGAs listed under the restriction include Kano Municipal, Gwale, Dala, Nassarawa, Tarauni, Ungogo (Jido), Dawakin Kudu (Tamburawa, Gurjiya, Jido Ward), Fagge and Kumbotso.
Maude explained that violators face up to six months’ imprisonment, a ₦10,000 fine, and forfeiture of their motorcycles.
The Ministry added that in communities where commercial motorcycle activities are still allowed, riders must undergo mandatory registration with their Ward Head, the Local Government Works Department, and the Divisional Police Officer in their area. Maude described this documentation as essential for “proper identification, enhanced security monitoring, and the orderly operation” of motorcycle transport services.
He noted that the government is urging riders, passengers, transport unions and community leaders to comply fully, while directing security agencies to intensify surveillance and enforce the law rigorously to promote public peace and deter crime.
Commercial motorcycles—long a key transport option in Kano—have featured prominently in security policy debates for over ten years. The 2013 law emerged during a period of heightened urban crime and insurgency-related threats, when motorcycles were frequently linked to offenses such as snatching, robbery and drive-by attacks. These concerns led authorities to impose restrictions in densely populated districts.
Although the rules were initially enforced strictly, compliance later dwindled as many riders returned to restricted zones. Fresh security challenges, including petty crime and the use of motorcycles to facilitate criminal movement, have renewed pressure on the government to intervene.
By reasserting the law’s validity, the Ministry of Justice signals a fresh crackdown aimed at restoring order, improving rider identification and reducing the anonymity often exploited in motorcycle-related offenses. The compulsory registration in permitted areas also reflects a broader effort to boost grassroots participation in security management.
Kano’s renewed directive follows similar measures adopted in several northern states, where motorcycle operations have been regulated or restricted in response to persistent insecurity.
