The Liberia National Police (LNP) has affirmed its commitment to upholding the temporary restrictions placed on commercial motorbikes within designated “No-Go Zones” in Monrovia, Liberia. These restricted areas encompass the stretch of road from ELWA Junction to Boulevard to Monrovia, and from Freeport through Logan Town, Clara Town, and into Central Monrovia. The LNP asserts that this measure is essential to ensure public safety and national security, pending the completion of a comprehensive security risk assessment in the affected areas. The decision to implement these restrictions stems from a fatal accident on February 19, 2025, where a vehicle experiencing mechanical failure collided with a motorbike, resulting in the death of motorcyclist Emmanuel Trokon Pajibo. While the initial restrictions were envisioned as temporary, the LNP has determined that a thorough evaluation of security vulnerabilities is crucial before any decision is made regarding the lifting or extension of the restrictions.
The LNP’s decision to enforce the No-Go Zone restrictions has ignited protests from members of the Motorcycle Union of Liberia. On March 3, 2025, motorcyclists took to the streets, urging the government and the LNP to rescind the restrictions, arguing that they impinge on their livelihoods. The LNP, in response, has emphasized that the restrictions are not intended to target motorcyclists indiscriminately but are a necessary precaution to mitigate potential security risks and protect public safety. They acknowledge the impact on the motorcyclists’ livelihoods and are actively engaging with the Motorcycle Union President to address their concerns, including the release of impounded motorbikes. This dialogue underscores the LNP’s commitment to collaborative engagement and finding solutions that balance security concerns with the economic needs of commercial motorbike operators.
The Liberian government has articulated its rationale for the No-Go Zone policy, emphasizing that it prioritizes public safety and national security. Deputy Information Minister for Press and Public Affairs, Daniel O. Sanoe, stated that the restrictions are not arbitrary but are implemented in the best interests of the nation. He stressed that the government’s primary objective is to maintain law and order while safeguarding the well-being of all citizens. The government acknowledges the inconvenience caused to commercial motorcyclists but underscores that the safety and security of the public are paramount. The incident that precipitated the restrictions highlighted the potential risks associated with motorbike operation in certain areas, and the No-Go Zones are intended to mitigate these risks while a comprehensive assessment is conducted.
The LNP is dedicated to ensuring minimal disruption to essential services and activities while enforcing the No-Go Zone restrictions. To achieve this, they have initiated the issuance of access passes to businesses, NGOs, and other non-commercial motorbike users who operate within the restricted areas. This measure recognizes the legitimate need for certain individuals and organizations to utilize motorbikes for essential functions and aims to strike a balance between enforcing the restrictions and accommodating legitimate transportation needs. The process of issuing access passes is designed to ensure that only authorized personnel are permitted to operate motorbikes within the No-Go Zones, further enhancing the effectiveness of the security measures.
The ongoing security assessment will determine the future of the No-Go Zone restrictions. The LNP is committed to a thorough evaluation of the security landscape in the designated areas, taking into account various factors that could impact public safety and national security. The findings of this assessment will inform the decision on whether to lift, modify, or maintain the restrictions. The LNP has assured the public that it will provide updates on the progress of the assessment and any subsequent decisions regarding the restrictions. This commitment to transparency reflects the LNP’s dedication to engaging with the public and ensuring that its actions are informed by evidence and are in the best interests of the community.
The No-Go Zone restrictions represent a complex balancing act between public safety concerns and the economic realities of those who rely on commercial motorbikes for their livelihood. The LNP and the Liberian government are navigating these competing interests by engaging with stakeholders, implementing mitigating measures such as access passes, and conducting a thorough security assessment. The outcome of this process will significantly impact the future of motorbike operation within Monrovia, and the LNP is committed to ensuring that any decisions made are well-informed, transparent, and in the best interests of all citizens. The government’s communication efforts, coupled with the collaborative engagement with affected parties, underscores the importance placed on navigating this challenging situation in a way that prioritizes both safety and economic considerations.
