The Chairman of Khana Local Government Area of Rivers State, Thomas Bariere, has banned night time operations of commercial motorcycle riders, popularly known as Okada, between 8:00pm and 6:00am.
He also announced sweeping new security measures as part of intensified efforts to address rising insecurity across Khana communities.
Recall that there was a recent attack by yet-to-be-identified gunmen on the Chairman of Khana Traditional Rulers Council, His Royal Majesty, King Dr. Suanu Timothy Yormaadam Baridam, JP, wherein he sustained gunshot wounds on his leg.
There was also another attack on the Youth President of Khana Youth Council, Barizaasi, who was found murdered in his home.
Special Adviser to the Khana LGA Chairman on Public Affairs, Leelee Charles, announced this new measures via a statement on Wednesday, February 17, 2026, which, according to him, takes immediate effect.
He volunteered that the measures form part of a broader strategy aimed at strengthening community-based intelligence gathering and enhancing collaboration between residents and security operatives.
Addressing stakeholders at a press briefing, Bariere emphasized that security agencies have been directed to arrest and impound any motorcycle found operating after 8:00pm within the local government area.
He noted that motorcycles have frequently been used to facilitate criminal activities, underscoring the need for stricter regulation and monitoring.
As part of the new measures, all motorcycle owners are required to register online with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) in Khana LGA for proper documentation and tracking.
The LG Chairman gave the operators two months from the date of the directive to comply, asserting that failure to do so will be treated as disobedience to government security order.
The Chairman also enjoined residents to promptly report suspicious movements or activities to designated security contacts to enable swift intervention, reiterating that individuals residing in various communities without any legitimate purpose are to vacate immediately.
The Khana Council Chairman disclosed that Councillors, Community Development Committees (CDC) Chairmen, Youth Presidents, and Chiefs will be held accountable if known suspects on security watchlists operate freely within their domains without being reported to the appropriate authorities.
He stressed that officials whether political or traditional who fail to cooperate with these security directives will face legal consequences.
Bariere also stated that special attention has been placed on riverine and coastal communities within Khana LGA, including Opuoko, Kaa, Luubaara, Baen, Duburo, Bo-Ue, Bianu, Kalaoko, Gwara, Kpean, Teenama, Sii, Kono, Wiiyaakara, and Beeri.
“These measures are not punitive but preventive. Security is a collective responsibility, and together we must protect our communities,” the statement concluded.