It is no longer news that Abia State Government through the Ministry of Information released a statement yesterday cutting down operational time of commercial tricycle riders popular called Keke from 6am – 7pm, instead of 6am to 9pm. Based on the press release, the state government made it clear that the decision was reached due to the increase usage of Keke for robbery and other criminal activities.

But the impact of the decision is obviously affecting Abians so much as many of them are stranded in Aba and Umuahia respectively.

Abia Facts News reporter who visited the popular Isi-Gate in Umuahia, saw hundreds of people stranded with no means of reaching their homes. While interacting with some of the stranded people, they condemned the decision and inquired to know if the government has put anything in place to ameliorate the expected suffering of the people by that decision.

One stranded fellow had this to say;

“Crime is everywhere in the world and the government do not put people in pain in trying to solve crime. I have been standing here for over 2 hours, no enough taxi and even the taxi are expensive. Common people like us use Keke that is cheaper and better. Is the government not aware that this decision will bring pain on the people, what was their plan to ameliorate the pain or is it because elections are over so they are doing anything they want? Tell them that people are not happy” he concluded.

READ THE PRESS RELEASE FROM ABIA STATE GOVERNMENT; 

Press Release

The attention of Abia State Government has been drawn to reports of upsurge in violent crimes perpetrated using tricycles (Keke Napep), especially at Aba and Umuahia cities

To enable security agencies in the state quickly arrest the situation, Governor Okezie Ikpeazu has directed the immediate restriction of operation time of tricycles from 6am to 7pm daily till further notice.

The State Commissioner of Police and heads of other relevant security agencies in the state are expected to ensure full enforcement as well as mobilize necessary security resources to ensure protection of lives and property of residents as well as visitors to the state.

We also wish to warn criminal elements in the state that this administration is determined to use all lawful means to hunt them down and take them to justice swiftly.

Security agencies in the state will continue to receive all necessary support from the government to enhance their performance in the discharge of their lawful duties with minimal constraints.

We also wish to assure all Abians that the Government will continue to do everything possible, within its powers, to stamp out violent crimes in our beloved state.

Our renewed focus on job creation is targeted at ensuring that all Abians who wish to engage in productive endeavours are supported to do so as well as guarantee employment for our teeming graduates who are obviously the best available in Nigeria.

Thank you.

Chief John Okiyi Kalu
Honorable Commisioner For Information, Abia State.
13/4/19