Abia State clarifies tricycle operation rules, denies statewide ban

Abia State's Commissioner for Transport, Chimezie Ukaegbu, has clarified that the state government has not imposed a ban on tricycles, commonly called 'keke.' The clarification follows recent statements regarding the operation of these vehicles and their numerous parks within the state capital, Umuahia.

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The government remains committed to ensuring safe, regulated, and efficient transportation across the state.

Ukaegbu explained that the restriction specifically targets the use of tricycles for long-distance passenger transportation. Keke operators are prohibited from traveling to destinations such as Owerri, Obowo, Mbaise, and Arochukwu. This measure aims to enhance passenger and operator safety, as tricycles are not designed for extended journeys and pose associated risks.

However, the government is strictly enforcing the use of the Nnenna-Oti Bus Terminal in Umuahia. Parks operating outside this designated terminal will face closure, fines, and impoundment of vehicles. Offenders will be prosecuted. The Commissioner warned park operators to comply with the directive to relocate to the new terminal to avoid legal repercussions.

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This is to inform the general public, especially tricycle operators, that as part of State Government efforts to ensure sanity, order, and safety on our roads, the Abia State Government hereby directs all Keke operators plying routes from Umuahia to Obowu, Owerri, Ohafia, and Arochukwu are strictly prohibited.

Despite the regulations, long-distance keke operators have appealed to the state government to permit their operation alongside the state's Green Shuttle buses. They argue that this business is their sole source of income. The Abia State Harmonised Task Force and transport unions have been directed to ensure compliance with the new directives.

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Any tricycle operator found violating this directive will be arrested and the tricycle impounded. This announcement takes immediate effect.