The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Gombe State, Dr. Bala Bello Tinka, has pledged to lift the night-time ban on commercial motorcycle operations if elected governor in the upcoming 2027 election.
​Speaking at a political engagement and campaign address on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at the party’s state secretariat in Gombe metropolis, Tinka addressed thousands of party supporters, transport union representatives, and residents.
​The restriction, currently enforced by the administration of Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya, prohibits commercial motorcycles, popularly known as Okada, and tricycles (Keke NAPEPA) from operating between 7:00 PM and 6:00 AM across the Gombe metropolis to curb urban crime.
​Addressing the gathering, Tinka argued that while public safety remains paramount, the blanket restriction has severely harmed night-time business activities and disrupted the livelihoods of thousands of low-income transport workers.
​”Security and economic survival must go hand in hand,” Tinka stated. “Under an ADC administration, we will restore 24-hour commercial motorcycle operations, but this full-time operation will come with strong regulation, mandatory digital tracking, and structured safety measures to protect operators and passengers alike.”
​In addition to lifting the night-time restriction, Tinka outlined immediate security measures aimed at curbing urban crime. He promised that within his first two months in office, his administration would eliminate street crimes, particularly phone and handbag snatching in urban centers.
​”Our approach to security will be proactive and technology-driven rather than punitive measures that paralyse small businesses,” Tinka added.
​Reinforcing the candidate’s campaign promises, the Media and Publicity Spokesperson for the Bala Bello Tinka Campaign Council, Abdulrazaq Mungadi, confirmed that the policy is part of a comprehensive economic rescue plan for Gombe State.
​Mungadi highlighted that the candidate’s agenda prioritises security, youth empowerment, healthcare, and education. He added that easing restrictions on the informal transport sector is a critical step toward unlocking Gombe’s night economy and boosting local trade.
​The ADC candidate concluded his speech by calling on residents, commercial drivers, and youth groups to support his movement in 2027, promising a people-centered administration focused on practical solutions rather than temporary fixes.
