Delta State, NIGERIA — In a decisive move to tackle mounting issues faced by local tricycle operators, Chief Okafor Uchenna, Director General of the Taskforce Monitoring Team for the Commercial Motorcycle and Tricycle Operators Association (COMTOA), visited Ogbogonogo Market Asaba, Delta State today.
The visit was prompted by escalating concerns about the operational difficulties experienced by Keke Riders in the area.
Chief Uchenna’s visit included a meeting with Ashimo Aliwa Cable, Chairman of the Market Unit and his team. Cable detailed the critical challenges that Keke Riders encounter daily. The primary issue stems from the severe shortage of designated parking and drop-off spaces for tricycles within the market area.. As a result, when passengers disembark, there is no proper area for Keke Riders to safely stop and unload.
This lack of designated space has led to frequent clashes between Keke Riders and the Oshimili South Local Government Taskforce. According to Cable, the Taskforce often seizes tricycles that are stopped in non-designated areas. Riders are then subjected to fines, which compounds their operational and financial burdens. The situation has become increasingly untenable, with many operators voicing frustrations over the punitive measures and lack of infrastructure support.
Cable, representing the concerns of the Keke Riders, urged Chief Uchenna to address the issue at a higher level. He requested that Chief Uchenna engage with the State Local Government Chairman to advocate for the establishment of designated parking and drop-off zones within Ogbogonogo Market. Such provisions, Cable argued, would not only alleviate the immediate pressures on Keke Riders but also improve the overall efficiency of market operations.
In response to these concerns, Chief Uchenna assured the Keke Riders and market stakeholders of his commitment to resolving the issue. He pledged to bring the matter to the attention of the State Local Government Chairman, emphasizing the need for urgent action to rectify the current deficiencies.
Chief Uchenna’s promise reflects a broader effort to address the infrastructural and regulatory challenges facing the commercial transport sector in Asaba.
The resolution of this issue is anticipated to have significant implications for the Keke Riders, who play a vital role in the local economy. By addressing the parking and operational challenges, local authorities and COMTOA aim to foster a more supportive environment for tricycle operators and enhance the overall functionality of Ogbogonogo Market.
As discussions continue, the focus will remain on finding practical solutions that balance regulatory needs with the operational realities of Keke Riders.
The outcome of Chief Uchenna’s engagement with the State Local Government Chairman will be closely watched by all stakeholders involved.
