NEWS
ASTOPU Secures Brand New Tricycle for Rider After Devastating Trailer Crash in Aba
A tricycle operator, Mr. Lazarus Chiemela, has expressed profound appreciation to the leadership of the Abia State Tricycle Operators Union (ASTOPU), Aba Zone, for its unwavering support and intervention following a devastating road accident that nearly claimed his life and left his tricycle completely destroyed.
Speaking during a visit to the ASTOPU Aba Zonal leadership, Mr. Chiemela recounted that on May 16, 2026, he was involved in a tragic accident at Brass Junction when a trailer truck rammed into and dragged his tricycle while he was trapped inside during a traffic gridlock.
The impact of the collision left him with serious injuries, while his passenger also sustained injuries. Both victims were immediately rushed to the hospital for medical treatment. He noted that, by God’s mercy and grace, they both survived the horrific incident.
According to him, his visit to the union’s leadership was to express heartfelt gratitude to the ASTOPU Aba Zonal Chairman, Comrade Victor Azubuike, and his executive team for standing by him throughout the difficult period. He commended the union for showing genuine concern for his welfare, closely monitoring his recovery, and ensuring that the matter involving the trailer truck was diligently pursued.
Mr. Chiemela disclosed that his tricycle was damaged beyond repair as a result of the accident.
However, through the intervention of the Abia State Tricycle Operators Union, Aba Zone, the company that owned the trailer truck accepted responsibility and compensated him by purchasing a brand-new tricycle to replace the destroyed one, enabling him to return to his business.
He attributed the successful resolution of the matter to the proactive leadership of Comrade Victor Azubuike, describing the union’s intervention as a demonstration of true leadership and commitment to the welfare of its members.
He also encouraged fellow tricycle operators across the state to remain law-abiding, work in harmony with ASTOPU, and support the union’s leadership, stressing that unity within the association provides members with protection and representation during difficult times.
Mr. Chiemela further stated that the achievements recorded by the current ASTOPU leadership were made possible because Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti entrusted the affairs of the union to capable hands committed to protecting the interests and welfare of tricycle operators acr
oss Abia State.