The Abia State Government has directed tricycle operators to stop operating on the Umuahia–Obowo–Owerri route as part of measures to improve order and safety on the state’s roads.

The government also ordered the immediate suspension of tricycle operations from Umuahia to Ohafia and Arochukwu, directing security agencies to arrest operators who violate the directive.

In a statement, the Commissioner for Transport, Chimezie Isaac Ukaegbu, said the measure was introduced to promote sanity, order and safety across the state’s road network.

Ukaegbu warned that any tricycle operator found violating the directive would be arrested, while the tricycle involved would be impounded.

The government urged all affected tricycle operators, popularly known as Keke NAPEP, as well as members of the public, to comply with the directive.

However, responding to concerns and panic among tricycle operators in Umuahia, Ukaegbu clarified that the government had not imposed a total ban on tricycles across Abia State.

He explained that the restriction was specifically targeted at long-distance passenger transportation.

“Keke (tricycle) operators are not banned from operating in Abia State.

“The restriction only applies to the use of tricycles for long-distance passenger transportation to destinations such as Owerri, Obowo, Mbaise, and Arochukwu,” Ukaegbu said.