Governor of Imo State, Rochas Okorocha, has said tricycle operators (Keke driver) in Imo State will cease to operate in designated parts of Owerri, the State Capital as from Tuesday, September 5, 2017.
According to him, Keke operators would no longer be expected to operate along the major roads of Douglas, Wetheral, Bank Road, Orlu Road and other designated roads. Only taxis will now be operating in the Capital City.
He stated this while sharing about 2000 Passat Wagon Vehicles to Keke drivers to enable them comply with the directive. Balloting was conducted at the Hero’s Square for the beneficiaries to emerge.
Okorocha further said the second batch of beneficiaries will get theirs in October while the third batch will have theirs own in December 2017.
Addressing the Keke Operators, Okorocha said, “Few years ago when the Keke people gave me a very resounding support, I promised you people that I will change you from three legged to four legged and for that reason, today marks the beginning of movement from tricycle to full car.
For purpose of clarity this is government empowerment scheme to empower the masses, to reduce pain in your families and to bring comfort. Keke has served us well in Imo State and I want to thank you all for serving us well but as Imo State is developing and getting better with good roads and a lot of infrastructural developments, Keke can no longer be the appropriate means of transport within the Owerri City, this is why we are moving from Keke to a full car.