By Christiana Uka
Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2027 governorship election in Cross River State, Sir Arthur Jarvis Archibong, has appealed to the State Government to show compassion to commercial motorcyclists whose motorcycles have been impounded.
Tension gripped the 8 Miles axis of Calabar on Tuesday, 7 July, 2026, as scores of commercial motorcyclists barricaded the Calabar-Ikom highway and adjoining roads in a protest over alleged seizure of motorcycles and harassment by security operatives, bringing traffic to a complete standstill.
The protest left hundreds of commuters stranded for hours while businesses within the area were disrupted. During the incident, it led to a clash between the angry protesters and the joint security operatives of Operations Okwok.
It was reported that it turned into violence leaving one who was chased by the security dead and many others injured. The move to seize their motorcycles, of which many depend on for survival amidst harsh economic quagmires has been met with criticism.
Social commentators have tagged the state government inconsiderate and against the “People’s First” mantra.
Sir Arthur Jarvis Archibong while reacting to the incident on his social media account (Facebook), appealed to the Government of Governor Bassey Otu to wear a human face and reconsider the action.
He said the riders did not protest because they wanted trouble but because they were tired of the continued seizure of their motorcycles, which he described as their only source of livelihood.
The businessman and Founder of Arthur Jarvis University, said affirmed that many motorcycles had been impounded during enforcement operations, leaving several riders without any means of earning a living. He said many families depend on the commercial motorcycle business for survival, adding that taking away their motorcycles without alternatives for them has increased the hardship faced by many households.
Archibong called on the relevant authorities to investigate the incident where the security operatives allegedly opened fire on the crowd and ensure that those responsible are held accountable if the allegations are confirmed.
READ ALSO: Police Aware Of Violent Operation Okwok-Angry Protesters Clash In Calabar
According to him, government has the responsibility to maintain law and order, but policies that affect the livelihoods of citizens should be implemented with understanding and compassion. He urged the government to provide alternative means of transportation and employment before enforcing policies that could leave thousands of residents without jobs.
The guber candidate appealed to the government to engage commercial motorcyclists through dialogue rather than allowing the situation to escalate, opining that motorcycles remain one of the major means of transportation for many residents, especially in areas where other transport options are limited.
He stressed that while government has the right to regulate transportation, the welfare of the people should remain a priority, calling for a review of the enforcement exercise and adopt measures that will protect both public safety and the livelihoods of commercial motorcyclists.
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