Motorcyclists in Abuja Call for Better Security as Bike Thefts Rise

Commercial motorcyclists in Bwari Area Council, FCT, are worried about the increasing number of motorcycle thefts in their communities.

The riders shared their worries in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria on Sunday in Bwari, Abuja. They urged security agencies to step up efforts to tackle this problem.

They also complained about the regular seizure of motorcycles by government officials over claims of unpaid revenue and parking violations.

The riders said these issues are seriously affecting their businesses, especially for those who rely on commercial motorcycle operations for their main income.

One rider, Mallam Musa Ibrahim, said that motorcycle theft has become a big issue for them. Losing a motorcycle means losing their way of making a living.

"This is our source of income; I don’t have any other job. The insecurity in the North made me come here to seek a better livelihood and losing this job will destroy my hopes and means of survival."

"In the last two weeks, over 15 of my colleagues have lost their motorcycles to thieves at night on lonely routes without security operatives around."

"Most of them were stabbed; some died on the spot, and many are currently receiving treatment in different hospitals."

"It is sad that we are struggling to earn a living while still being hunted in this manner," Ibrahim said.

He called on security agencies and community leaders to increase surveillance and patrolling, especially around residential areas and places where motorcycles are parked overnight.

Another commercial rider, Salisu Sanusi, agreed with Ibrahim. He said the job is profitable but comes with many frustrating challenges.

He explained that robbery attacks are not the only problems they face. Sometimes, officials seize motorcycles when riders do not pay the required revenues or break "No Parking" rules.

He asked the council to implement measures that would let riders fix minor issues before their motorcycles are taken away.

"Most of us operate on a daily income basis. Prolonged seizure can result in loss of income and difficulty in meeting family obligations when our motorcycles are impounded for several days or not returned at all," he said.

Sanusi also suggested creating designated motorcycle parks and loading points in Bwari to help reduce conflicts with enforcement officials and discourage improper parking.

He urged the council and the FCT administration to consider fair revenue rates, flexible payment plans, and clearer identity for approved revenue collectors to avoid confusion and exploitation of riders.

Another motorcyclist, Bello Mohammed, called for government-supported loans or credit facilities. This would help tax-paying riders buy motorcycles, get safety gear, and maintain their businesses.

He believes that such support, along with better security, proper regulations, and regular talks between government officials and motorcycle associations, could lead to a more organized motorcycle transport system in Bwari.

Mohammed emphasized that government enforcement is essential for order but urged officials to balance enforcement with protecting the livelihoods of those relying on motorcycles for income.

He also encouraged commercial riders to follow approved revenue payments, parking rules, and other lawful directives. He wants the government to ensure fair and transparent enforcement.

"We are trying to earn a living and our passengers only want to get to their destinations safely. We are all here trying to survive and also help each other."

"There are genuine ways to differentiate the good from the bad riders."

"I believe that with open and stronger collaboration among government, security agencies, community leaders, and motorcycle associations, we can reduce theft and improve transportation and economic activities across Bwari communities," he said.