Govt Suspends Tricycle Operations In Jos-Bukuru Metropolis

By Jide Afolabi, Jos

The Plateau State Government has suspended the operations of commercial Tricycles popularly called Keke NAPEP, in Jos-Bukuru metropolis indefinitely.

This was disclosed on Monday in a press release signed by Mr Cornelius Shioibial, the Permanent Secretary, Cabinet and Special Services, and made available CityMirrorNews in Jos on

He said that “the suspension of their activities commence today, 26th February, 2018”.

The Tricyclists had earlier on Monday protested the compulsory driving programme to be organised by the Vehicle Inspection Office (VIO) in conjunction with the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) with the attendant charges of about 14, 500 naira per head for registration, training, licencing and certification.

The tricyclists had a peaceful protest march around the city centre placing leaves on their tricycles in solidarity however, some to the the more aggrieved members went to office of the VIO located along Ahmadu Bello Way in the Jos metropolis to register their dissatisfaction with the policy. However, the protest turned violence as pebbles and stones were being thrown at each other. It took the gallantry of the security agents to bring the situation under control.

In order to forestall breakdown of law and order, the statement directed security agencies to be at alert stating that, “security agencies are advised to take note of the suspension.”

As a result of this ugly development, commuters were left stranded at bus-stops while some had to result to trekking.

Taxis are very few in the state and most commuters are used to the popular keke NAPEP. In fact, there are areas where commercial taxis can not be found.

It will also be recalled that the Governor Jonah Jang adminstration banned commercial and private motorcycles usage within the Jos-Bukuru metropolis. Commuters are however appealing to the government and tricyclists to discuss and find an amicable solution to the impasse.