Metro
How over 500 angry tricycle riders besieged Imo govt house over ban
Angered by alleged insincerity of the Governor Rochas Okorocha-led government of Imo State, no less than 500 tricycles, popularly known as Keke, riders on Thursday blocked the entrance leading to the state government house.
Their action was sequel to the announcement by the state government that it has begun the initial phase of banning operators of tricycle in the state.
But in defiance, the Keke riders who besieged the entrance of the state government house in demonstration against government action said that their anger was that government failed to keep the promise it made them.
According to an operator of the vehicle who preferred not to be mentioned, government gave them till December 1, to cease operation.
“When government said we should stop our service in the capital city was December 1, but today they are saying we have been banned,” he said.
Meanwhile, Okorocha had in an earlier announcement said, “On this issue of Keke operators we have discussed with them and they seize to operate in some areas from today (Thursday). We have replaced them with taxis.
“What I understand is that the taxis we bought for them, they are using them outside the state, their reason was that as long as keke still ply in the capital city, it will be difficult for them to get passengers and they cannot compete with Keke.
“So fotunately enough those that got the taxis are the same Keke riders. As a result of this, they packed the taxis in their houses.
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“However, we have agreed with them that we should start the first phase of the ban. That reminds me as from today (Thursday) there will be no Keke on Wethedral road and among other areas.
“We are also introducing Imo black cap. It is special designed bus, that help to take away VIPs. This is to compliment the effort of taxi scheme. It is a way to give Owerri a new look.”
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