Chief Uchenna Okafor Hosts Commissioner, Reaffirms Clampdown on Illegal Keke, Okada Operators

ASABA — The Director General of the Delta State Taskforce and Monitoring of the Commercial Motorcycle and Tricycle Operators Association (COMTOA), Amb. Chief Uchenna Okafor, on Monday received the Delta State Commissioner for Technical Education, Mr. Smart Ijomah Ufoh, in his Asaba office for a strategic visit.

In the meeting described as cordial and forward-looking, Chief Okafor used the occasion to highlight his long-standing personal contributions to youth empowerment in the state, particularly in technical and vocational training. He disclosed that beyond his official duties, he had personally sponsored several young Deltans to acquire technical skills, including the repair and maintenance of tricycles (popularly known as “Keke”).

“I have been passionate about youth development, and through personal sponsorship, many of our youths have learned valuable skills, especially in Keke repair,” Chief Okafor said. “Many of them are doing very well today as independent technicians and service providers.”

The DG emphasized that while empowerment and capacity-building remain central to his mission, his taskforce is equally committed to restoring sanity and enforcing regulation within the commercial transport Keke and okada sector in Delta State. He reaffirmed that his team is “leaving no stone unturned” in tackling illegal operations by Keke and Okada riders, particularly those operating without registration or authorization.

Addressing concerns over illegal ticketing, Chief Okafor condemned the activities of ticket racketeers and sellers of fake tickets, warning that his office will continue to treat such infractions with zero tolerance.

“We are working daily to ensure orderliness and compliance among Keke and Okada operators,” he said. “Illegal ticket sales, extortion, and any form of impersonation are treated as serious offenses by this office.”

According to the DG, COMTOA taskforce and monitoring under his leadership has also prioritized cleanliness and discipline within the sector, noting that his team regularly conducts monitoring and outreach to educate operators on best practices and the importance of adhering to state guidelines.

Responding during the visit, Commissioner Ufoh praised Chief Okafor’s dedication and commended his dual focus on both enforcement and empowerment.

“You are doing a great job, and it is commendable that you are not just enforcing rules but also building lives,” said Ufoh. “Your support for technical education aligns perfectly with the vision of the Delta State Governor to provide skills and opportunities to our youths.”

The Commissioner assured Chief Okafor of the government’s continued support, adding that technical education remains a cornerstone of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration.

The meeting ended on a positive note, with both leaders pledging closer collaboration between the Ministry of Technical Education and COMTOA in advancing the goals of youth empowerment, public order, and sustainable transportation in Delta State.