Bawku Motorbike Restrictions Eased as Government Moves to Restore Normalcy

By Zainab Ali

The government has eased restrictions on motorbike riding in Bawku Municipality and its surrounding areas, allowing both men and women to ride during the daytime.

The revised directive took effect on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, permitting motorbike use from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. daily. The decision was taken by the Minister for the Interior, Mohammed Muntaka-Mubarak, on the advice of the National Security Council and through an Executive Instrument.

The move marks a further relaxation of security restrictions in Bawku, where motorbike use had previously been subject to tighter limitations. The Interior Ministry says the easing forms part of efforts to gradually restore normal life in the municipality as the security situation improves.

However, the government has made it clear that the easing of the motorbike restriction does not mean all security measures have been removed.

The existing curfew remains in force from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. Residents and visitors are expected to comply with the curfew hours. There is also still a total ban on the possession and carrying of arms, ammunition and other offensive weapons within Bawku and its environs.

The government has warned that anyone found carrying arms or ammunition will be arrested and prosecuted.

Authorities have also appealed to chiefs, elders, opinion leaders, young people and residents to exercise restraint and use non-violent means to address the challenges facing the area.

The latest decision comes as peace-building efforts continue in Bawku. The National Peace Council has been engaging stakeholders from both sides of the conflict, with government support also being directed towards efforts to achieve lasting peace.

For residents who depend on motorbikes for transportation and daily activities, the new daytime arrangement represents a significant change. The government says its broader objective is to gradually return affected communities to normal life while maintaining the measures considered necessary for public safety.

The easing of the restriction is therefore being viewed as another step in that direction, while authorities continue to call for peace and cooperation from all sides.