“Because of the No Go Zone, Accidents In Monrovia Have Reduced,” Says John Kenyor

Monrovia, Liberia: The President of the Motorcycle and Tricycle Union of Liberia, John Kenyor, has praised the Government of Liberia for its recent restrictions on motorcycle use in parts of Monrovia and surrounding areas, claiming the measure has resulted in a sharp decline in bike-related accidents and fatalities.

Kenyor, who recently toured the John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital (JFK), said he was impressed by the significant reduction in motorcycle accident cases reported at the facility. According to him, the trend is a positive indication that the government’s controversial no-go-zone policy is saving lives.

“Protecting lives is the highest responsibility of any government, and what we are seeing now is that fewer young people are dying on the roads,” Kenyor stated. “This is something we must commend the government for.”

The no-go-zone ban was implemented following violent attacks on public property that erupted after a motorcyclist was struck and killed by a speeding vehicle. In response, authorities enforced a restriction on motorcycles entering key parts of the capital to ensure public order and safety.

While the move has been met with resistance including two protests by motorcyclists and the threat of further demonstrations Kenyor’s comments signal a notable shift in tone from a union leader who has historically defended riders’ rights.

However, Kenyor stopped short of providing any official data to support his observations, a point that may raise questions among critics who argue that the ban has caused more hardship than relief.

As tensions remain high among the cycling community, all eyes are now on both the government and union leadership to find a middle ground that balances safety with economic livelihood.

On March 4, 2025, hundreds of motorcyclists marched through Monrovia, presenting petitions at major institutions like the One UN House, the U.S. Embassy, and the Legislature. They condemned the “no-go zones” as discriminatory and financially burdensome. 

Trokon Gray, known as “Yellow Machine,” led the protest, highlighting that riders have fulfilled all government requirements, including bike registration and insurance, yet still face restrictions. 

The group demanded the return of impounded motorcycles and the resignation of Police Inspector General Gregory Coleman, accusing him of corruption and human rights violations.