From Okey Sampson, Umuahia
Some tricycle operators in Aba, Abia State, have staged a peaceful demonstration against alleged harassment by security operatives and the denial of her members to register under its association approved by the government by a rival group. They have, therefore, called on Governor Alex Otti to intervene.
The protesters under the banner of ‘Real Keke Operators Association Abia-State (REKOAA)’ said the harassment and denial was despite the recognition and approval given to them to operate as a union from the state Ministry of Transport through a letter referenced MOT/S/21/1/62, and dated February 26, 2025.
Speaking during the protest, the union’s spokesperson, Sunday Okenwa said, “Our primary concern is the denial of REKOAA’s right to operate as a recognized Tricycle Association in the state.
“In our opinion, this decision contradicts the Ministry of Transport’s Certificate of Approval, which granted REKOAA recognition.
Going further, Okenwa enthused, “Additionally, Certificate of Registration No: MOT/T/063 certifies that REKOAA has been duly registered, having met all the Ministry’s requirements. What else can we say?
“We are not opposed to ASTOPU, Our concern is that REKOAA has met all the requirements set by the State Government for approval, and the government has granted us approval and a license to operate.”
“ASTOPU presented two conditions for collaboration with REKOAA members. Firstly, they demanded the dissolution of REKOAA’s registered membership and its integration into ASTOPU.
“Secondly, they insisted on reinstating outdated practices, including pit collection and multiple taxation, which have been abolished by the governor.”
Okenwa, while appealing to the state government not to succumb to the antics of those who want the monopoly in the tricycle union to continue, said having two tricycle management systems in Abia State could be beneficial, as it would provide tricycle operators with choices and encourage healthy competition.
“Our humble request to our amiable governor is to intervene and call those preventing REKOAA from registration despite fulfilling all necessary requirements and paying for offices in Umuahia and Aba to order.
They commended Governor Otti for his good works and the Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu ,for granting them approval to operate.