The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has declared that commercial tricycles, popularly known as Keke Napep, and commercial motorcycles (Okada) will no longer be permitted to operate within the Abuja city centre, citing security concerns.

Speaking during his monthly media briefing in Abuja on Tuesday, Wike said the decision followed deliberations at a recent FCT Security Council meeting, where authorities concluded that the activities of Keke Napep and Okada operators had become a significant threat to public safety, in addition to creating disorder in the city.

The minister revealed that he had already approved measures to restrict their operations in designated parts of the capital.

"Just this morning, I signed the approval after our Security Council meeting, where we agreed that Keke Napep and Okada are not only causing a nuisance but have also become a serious security threat," Wike said.

"I have directed the security agencies to identify and map out the areas where tricycles and motorcycles will no longer be allowed to operate. However, it will be difficult to enforce a total ban across the entire Federal Capital Territory."

Wike also reiterated his administration's resolve to rid Abuja of destitutes and street beggars, saying the FCT Administration lacks the capacity to provide permanent shelters for them.

According to him, the government is finalising plans to intensify the evacuation of beggars and homeless persons once the necessary logistics are approved.

"We are working on that and only need approval to provide the logistics. Destitutes and beggars are everywhere. Each time we remove them, they return," he said.

The minister dismissed calls for the government to establish shelters for the displaced, arguing that doing so would encourage more people from neighbouring states such as Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger and Kaduna to relocate to Abuja.

"Some people ask why we don't provide accommodation for them. If we do that, we will simply be encouraging more people to leave their states for Abuja. How can the government continue to fund such an arrangement?" he queried.

The FCT Administration has consistently maintained that its ongoing enforcement measures are aimed at enhancing security, restoring order, and preserving the status of Abuja as a modern and well-organised capital city.