COMMUTERS in Asaba, the Delta State capital, have expressed frustration over the increasing scarcity of commercial tricycles, popularly known as “Keke,” which serve as a primary means of transportation within the state capital.
A cross-section of commuters interviewed by our correspondent also lament the sharp rise in transportation costs, attributing it to the scarcity of Keke.
A resident, Mrs. Antonia Thomas, blamed the current fuel scarcity across the state for the dwindling availability of tricycles. She recounted how a trip from Nnebisi Road to Infant Jesus, which used to cost ₦150, now costs ₦300 due to the shortage.
In a similar situation, one Miss Antonia, also expressed frustration at how she stands on the road for a long period of time waiting to get Keke to work. “It’s really stressful after preparing for work, and you stand outside under the sun waiting to get Keke. Sometimes I just feel like going back home.” She said.
Mrs. Ifeoma Vincent, another resident living along Summit Road, linked the scarcity of Keke to the ban of motorcycle (Okada) across the state. She also pointed out that the recent spike in crimes, some of which have resulted in some Keke operators losing their Keke to theft, has deterred many tricycle operators from working, thereby reducing the number of available Keke on the roads.
Also speaking with a Keke rider, Mr. Philip Nwatu, noted that the recent introduction of ticket sales for commercial tricycle operators was ill-timed. He also mentioned that the reckless driving by some Keke riders, which has led to accidents and the damage of government property, might have contributed to the crackdown on tricycles by authorities.
Residents are pleading with the government to take immediate action to alleviate their hardships. They called for a reduction in fuel prices, enhanced security measures to protect residents, and strict enforcement of laws to hold offenders accountable.
As the scarcity of Keke continues to impact daily life, the residents of Delta State hope for swift intervention from the government to restore normalcy to the transportation sector.
