No fewer than 1,000 shuttle buses have been ordered by the Anambra State government to serve as an alternative for commercial motorcycle operators who have been banned from operating in Awka and Onitsha with effect from July 1, 2018

The Japan made shuttle buses which would be disbursed by the Anambra Small Business Agency, ASBA is expected to go for N700,000 each, because there were no local manufacturers of such buses.

Speaking on the ban, the commissioner of Information and Public Enlightenment, Mr. C. Don Adinuba said that many Okada operators have been visiting the ABSA office to find out procedures for obtaining the shuttle bus.

Adinubah explained that the loan that would be given to the Okada operators would be devoid of any interest, adding that all that is needed is proof that the person is an Okada operator and a guarantor.

While assuring that the process would be devoid of discrimination, he reeled out areas to be affected by the ban to include, Onitsha and its environs, including Nkpor and Okpoko, while areas in the state capital include Awka, Amawbia, Nibo, Nise and Okpuno.

He said that there would be no exemption as to those who can use Okada except for branded security branded motorcycles.