‎The Sapele Local Government Area of Delta State has warned commercial motorcycle and tricycle operators, against the use of face masks while on duty.

‎Contained in a statement signed by the Secretary of the Local Government Council, Hon. Raymond Overah, and made available to newsmen in Warri on Tuesday, the directives are said to be part of efforts to maintain peace, order, and effective transportation management within the area.

‎The statement noted that the new rules would take effect 30 days from now and would be strictly enforced.

‎According to the statement, the operation time for okada riders is now restricted to 6:00 am – 8:00 pm daily. Every rider must wear a reflective vest with a clearly written Area Code Number.

‎”Any okada rider found wearing face masks while on duty shall be arrested immediately,” it added.

‎For tricycle operators, the council fixed operational hours between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. daily. It also directed that “no passenger shall enter any keke without a visible and valid VIO Number boldly displayed on the body,” and that “keke covers must be properly tied, especially during rainfall.”

‎The council warned that any okada or keke operator arrested for violating the directives “shall be detained for seven days.”

‎It further cautioned that “any person caught stealing within the ATP premises shall be shot on sight,” urging all operators, unions, and residents to comply fully with the new measures.