Our Correspondent
A storm is brewing in Gombe as a fiery legal showdown takes shape. A Gombe-based lawyer, Usamatu Abubakar, Esq., has dragged the State Government and Police Command before the Federal High Court, Abuja, challenging the controversial ban on motorcycle operations between 7:00 PM and 6:00 AM.
In his suit, Abubakar insists that the restriction, enforced since June 11, 2025, without legislative backing, tramples upon the constitutional rights of Gombe residents to freedom of movement. He is seeking a declaration that the ban is illegal, alongside an order compelling its immediate lifting.
The lawsuit lists the Governor of Gombe State as the 1st Respondent, the Attorney General of the State as the 2nd Respondent, and the Commissioner of Police as the 3rd Respondent.
Abubakar, invoking Chapter Four of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), is asking the court for far-reaching reliefs, including:
A declaration that the restriction violates Section 41(1) of the Constitution.
An order compelling the government to lift the ban and return all seized motorcycles.
A perpetual injunction restraining authorities from imposing such restrictions without proper legislation.
A public apology, to be published in two national dailies and on the police’s official social media pages.
A whopping ₦50 million in damages for the alleged violation of his rights, plus ₦5 million in legal costs and 10% annual interest until full settlement.
Personal Ordeal and Wider Impact
In his affidavit, Abubakar painted a grim picture of life under the restriction. He narrated how he often works late and depends on his motorcycle for mobility but has been repeatedly stranded since the ban took effect.
He cited a harrowing experience when his wife fell gravely ill at night, and he could neither transport her on his motorcycle nor find commercial vehicles to rush her to the hospital.
“This policy is not only unlawful but life-threatening,” he declared.
Beyond personal hardship, he noted that the restriction has crippled community life in Gombe. Religious activities such as Islamic lectures, seminars, and evening prayers have been disrupted, while police officers have allegedly confiscated motorcycles and punished residents without legal grounds.
“A press release is not law,” Abubakar emphasized, accusing the state government of undermining democracy by endorsing the police directive without legislative approval.
Failed Attempts at Resolution
Before resorting to litigation, Abubakar made efforts to resolve the matter amicably. On June 22, 2025, he wrote to the Commissioner of Police under the Freedom of Information Act, seeking clarity on the restriction, but got no response. His lawyer also wrote to the Governor on July 24, 2025, urging a review of the ban, but the appeal was ignored.
The lawyer described the atmosphere in Gombe once dusk approaches as “panic and chaos, with people rushing home like fugitives,” adding that the ban has disrupted essential sectors of daily life.
Constitutional Argument
Citing Section 41 of the 1999 Constitution, Abubakar stressed that freedom of movement is a fundamental right that can only be limited by a law passed by a competent legislative authority—not through a police press release.
He therefore prays the court to not only strike down the ban but also to compel the respondents to compensate him and other affected citizens.
Awaiting the Court’s Decision
The case is yet to be assigned a hearing date, but Abubakar has urged that it be called up promptly for determination, underscoring the urgency of restoring the rights of Gombe residents.
If successful, the lawsuit could set a precedent with nationwide implications, potentially clipping the wings of arbitrary executive and police directives.
PIONEER NEWS 