Abuja police investigate clashes between task force and motorcyclists

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command has launched an investigation into a violent confrontation in the Life Camp area of Abuja involving Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) personnel and commercial motorcyclists, known as Okada riders.

The clash reportedly occurred during an enforcement operation by a task force constituted by the FCT Administration to uphold the ban on motorcycles on major roads. Reports indicate the situation escalated from a heated argument into a confrontation, with video clips circulating online alleging a motorcyclist was fatally shot.

In a separate report regarding the same period of enforcement, personnel from the Directorate of Road Traffic Services (DRTS) and police officers were reportedly ambushed by suspected scavengers and motorcycle operators near Godab Estate. This attack allegedly involved the use of machetes and other weapons, resulting in injuries to seven personnel, including four police officers and three DRTS officials.

FCT Police spokesperson SP Josephine Adeh stated that normalcy has been restored to the area following directives from the Commissioner of Police. The Command has ordered a comprehensive investigation to determine the exact circumstances of the clashes.