The Rivers State Ministry of Transport has warned that commercial vehicles operating without the approved state colours will be impounded from November 1, 2026.
The ministry issued the warning in a statement signed by its Permanent Secretary, Dr (Mrs) Vera Sam-Dike, and obtained by our reporter on Saturday.
It directed operators of taxis, buses and tricycles, popularly known as keke, to complete the painting of their vehicles in the official state colours on or before October 31. According to the ministry, monitoring and strict enforcement of the directive would commence immediately after the deadline.
“Any commercial vehicle found operating without the approved state colour scheme after the deadline will be impounded, and the operator barred from service until full compliance and payment of applicable fines,” the statement said.
The government explained that the measure was aimed at improving public safety and making legitimate commercial transport vehicles easily identifiable to commuters across the state.
It described the directive as a vital safety measure and urged owners of unpainted or improperly painted commercial vehicles to complete the transition before the enforcement date.
The ministry also advised operators seeking clarification or information on painting workshops offering subsidised rates to contact the Head of the Land Transportation Department, Engr. Andrew Alapuberesisika, through the dedicated telephone lines provided by the ministry.
It expressed appreciation to transport union leaders and vehicle owners whose vehicles had already complied with the directive.
The ministry reiterated that operators whose vehicles remained outside the approved colour scheme after October 31 would face impoundment, suspension from service and applicable fines.