The Arewa Christian Youth Leadership Forum has commended the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) for enforcing a night-time restriction on motorcycles in Gombe State, describing the move as a necessary step toward improving public safety and curbing crime.
The restriction, which bars the use of motorcycles between 7:00 PM and 6:00 AM across the state, has stirred protests from some residents, particularly commercial motorcycle operators. But ACYLF believes the directive is justified in light of the growing security challenges in the region.
“Given the spike in criminal activities involving motorcycles, especially at night, we consider this measure both timely and necessary,” said Dunijir Gatama, National President of ACYLF. “The safety of lives and property must take precedence over convenience.”
Gatama noted that motorcycles are often exploited by criminals as a fast and discreet means of transport during robberies, bandit attacks, and other violent crimes. He also highlighted the high rate of night-time motorcycle accidents due to poor visibility and disregard for safety regulations.
“Beyond security, this restriction also contributes to public safety,” he said. “Too many accidents occur at night involving motorcycles—many of which are unregistered or operated without helmets, lights, or licenses.”
He further explained that the restriction is not unique to Gombe State, pointing to similar policies in the Federal Capital Territory, Lagos, Rivers, Kaduna, Adamawa, Akwa Ibom, Enugu, and Kano States.
“Gombe is not alone in this approach. Other states have taken similar steps and recorded improved security outcomes,” Gatama added.
However, ACYLF emphasized that while it supports the police action, the Gombe State Government must not ignore the economic fallout for residents who rely on motorcycle transport for their livelihood.
“We urge the government to act swiftly in providing viable alternatives for those affected,” Gatama said. “Security must go hand in hand with socio-economic stability. Otherwise, we risk creating deeper frustrations and unrest.”
The group called on the state government to introduce targeted interventions such as vocational training programs, job placement schemes, and MSME support to help absorb displaced commercial riders. It also recommended investing in safe and affordable public transportation to cater to the mobility needs of citizens—particularly at night.
“Security enforcement should be matched with empowerment initiatives,” Gatama noted. “A well-secured state is one where its people are also economically secure and hopeful.”
ACYLF concluded by calling on residents to remain calm, law-abiding, and cooperative with security agencies, while encouraging government authorities to ensure a holistic approach that balances enforcement with empathy.
