The Delta State Director General of the Taskforce and Monitoring of the Commercial Motorcycle and Tricycle Operators Association (COMTOA), Amb. Chief Uchenna Okafor, has called upon Keke operators in Sapele to embrace recent government policies aimed at enhancing safety for both drivers and passengers.
In a candid address on Thursday, Okafor emphasized that the government’s decision to ban the use of dark tinted blinds on Keke is driven by a genuine concern for public safety rather than an intent to undermine operators.
“The government is not out to witch-hunt or target our operators; rather, the governor want to ensure the safety of the citizens who rely on Keke services daily,” Okafor stated that the ban on Keke blinds come in the wake of rising criminal activities allegedly facilitated by the use of Keke with tinted blinds that obscure visibility and aid illegal acts.
Okafor recounted the past incidents particularly in Asaba and Warri, where criminal activities such as kidnapping and arms proliferation linked to illegal operators utilizing Keke with blacked-out windows. He said ever since the ban, kidnapping with Keke in the areas is a thing of the past.
“These operators exploit the cover of dark blinds to shield their nefarious activities, wreaking havoc,” he warned. “As a result, it became imperative for the government to intervene to restore safety and order on our roads.”
The Director General articulated the critical need for open dialogue amongst all stakeholders, urging Keke operators to view the ban on blinds as a protective measure rather than an infringement upon their rights as entrepreneurs. He assured that the administration’s policies focus primarily on fostering a secure and conducive environment for legitimate operators to thrive.
While several Keke operators expressed mixed sentiments about the ban some understood and appreciated the government’s position, others voiced their frustration. Okafor acknowledged these concerns, affirming that the government is open to feedback and encouraged operators to work collaboratively to find solutions that benefit everyone.
In response to calls for assistance, the Taskforce has initiated several outreach programmes aimed at educating Keke operators about crime prevention strategies and the risks involved with illegal operation with their Keke. Okafor asserted that safety measures are being designed with input from operators, aiming to strike a balance between safety enforcement and support for legitimate Keke drivers.
“We must work together; our shared goal is to ensure the well-being of our members. The fight against crime is a fight for us all,” he declared.
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