ASTOPU ABA ZONE STANDS FIRM AGAINST ILLEGAL SERVICE CHARGES ON TRICYCLE (KEKE) OPERATORS

The leadership of the Abia State Tricycle Operators Union (ASTOPU), Aba Zone, wishes to categorically state its firm disapproval and outright rejection of any attempt by individuals, groups, or government functionaries within Aba metropolis to impose unauthorized service charges on tricycle (Keke) operators.

This act is not only unlawful but also a direct violation of the Abia State Government’s directive against illegal levies and multiple taxation, which the present administration has consistently emphasized.

The leadership and entire membership of Keke Operators see such invidious plans as an act of sabotage against the good and non-extortionist policies of the government, and ploy to pitch the Union against the Government.

We therefore call on the Abia State Board of Internal Revenue, law enforcement agencies, Abia State Ministry of Transport and all relevant authorities in the transport sector to promptly apprehend and prosecute any person, group, or body found engaging in this criminal activity. Such impostors have no legal mandate to interfere in the operation of tricycles in Aba.

Furthermore, ASTOPU Aba Zone advises all tricycle operators to remain vigilant and to resist any form of extortion or unauthorized levies. We assure our members and the public that no directive for such service charges has emanated from ASTOPU, Abia State Ministry of Transport or the State Government.

The Union remains committed to protecting the rights and welfare of all tricycle operators while working in alignment with the policies of the Abia State Government under the leadership of His Excellency, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR.

Signed,

Hon. Victor Azubuike 

Chairman, Abia State Tricycle Operators Union (ASTOPU), Aba Zone

Comrade Ken Nwosu

Secretary, Abia State Tricycle Operators Union (ASTOPU), Aba Zone