MIX REACTION GREETS KEKE/OKADA RESTRICTION TIME IN ABIA

REPORTER: JOHN MADUAGWU

The decision of Abia State Government to restrict tricycle and motorcycle operations in Umuahia and Aba between 6am and 7pm is generating mixed reactions among residents.

When Radio Nigeria went into Umuahia town to sample the opinion of some residents, one of them who gave his name simply as Mr. Offor, agreed with the decision of the government, stating a lot of crime was being committed using tricycles and motorcycles.

He, however, called for improved security measures to ensure that those who use taxis in the night do not fall victim to criminals.

A tricycle operator, Mr. Chinemerem Ndubueze, who said that he had no problem with the measure, claimed that most of the crime committed using tricycles were carried out by underaged riders, some of whom even carry out their criminal activities during the day.

He, therefore, urged the government to tighten security and come up with a policy stipulating the minimum age of riders, which would weed off those who were too young to be on the road.

For her part, a business woman, Miss Nnenna Samuel, disagreed with the time frame, noting that given the tight economic situation in the country, some business owners who live far from their shops have had to stay longer than they used to in order to fend for themselves, while contending that such restrictions in the past did not solve the problem.

She suggested that since some businesses thrive more in the night, the time could be extended to 9pm to enable people to get home before the restrictions set in.

The new restriction is expected to take effect from July 1, 2024.

EDITED BY CHUKWUBUIKE MADU