By Douglas Princemola
Hon. Frank Onwumere, Special Adviser to Governor Hope Uzodinma on Illegal Transport Hubs and Oversight of Motor Parks, has raised alarm over rising insecurity in Owerri, linking it to commercial motorcycle operators, popularly known as Okada riders. He alleged that many of these riders, particularly foreign nationals from Niger Republic, are defying the state government’s ban on Okada operations within Owerri Municipal. The ban, which took effect on December 5, 2024, was introduced to curb crime and improve public safety.
To enforce compliance, Onwumere led a crackdown that resulted in the confiscation of 51 motorcycles, which were handed over to the Imo State Police Command. However, his enforcement efforts have sparked controversy, with allegations of bribery circulating on social media. A viral video, allegedly orchestrated by an individual identified as Mr. Promise Chigozie, also known as “Biggy,” accused Onwumere’s office of demanding ₦100,000 to release seized motorcycles.
In his defense, Onwumere dismissed the accusations as deliberate attempts to tarnish his reputation. He alleged that Biggy resorted to fabricating false claims after he denied him permission to use Heroes Square as a storage site for impounded trucks. According to Onwumere, certain figures within Governor Uzodinma’s administration are also working against him, seeking to discredit his commitment to enforcing the government’s policies.
Biggy, who serves as the Head of Operations and Enforcement under Dazzlemate Investment Limited, countered Onwumere’s claims, accusing him of overstepping his jurisdiction by unlawfully impounding motorcycles. He further alleged that Onwumere was extorting Okada operators and vowed to escalate the matter to Governor Uzodinma for investigation.
Despite the controversy, Onwumere remains steadfast, urging Owerri residents to avoid patronizing Okada riders, whom he accused of being involved in crimes such as kidnapping, robbery, and theft. He called on citizens to support government efforts in tackling insecurity and report suspicious activities.
The ongoing dispute highlights deeper governance issues, political tensions, and security concerns in Imo State, raising critical questions about the enforcement of government policies and the integrity of officials involved.
