FRSC to book tricycle for goods, passengers overloading – Sector Commander

www.odogwublog.com reports that the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) says henceforth it will book and fine tricycle operators who overload goods

or passengers in Anambra state especially within the commercial city of Onitsha and its environs.

The FRSC Sector Commander in Anambra state, Mr Sunday Ajayi, gave the warning while speaking in an interactive session between the FRSC and tricycle operators, popularly known as Keke Napep operators, in Onitsha on Thursday.

Ajayi said that tricycle was designed to carry a specific quantity of tonnage of goods and passengers; adding: ``It is designed four persons per each tricycle and nothing should be loaded on top of the tricycle’’.

He noted that the corps had been clement to tricycle operators; ``but as far as this interactive session is concerned, if you fall into the habit and you are caught, the stipulated fine of N10,000 is awaiting you’’.

The commander also appealed to the tricycle operators to avoid riding in the expressway for their own safety; adding that it is not advisable for you to drag the highway with vehicles especially the larger ones.

``It is better and safer you operate in the inner roads and routes; avoid riding on the expressway since even the breeze coming from a speedy long vehicle could throw the tricycle off balance.

``We are concerned of you safety and the need for you to continue to cater for your families and love ones,’’ he said.

The Assistant Corps Commander in-charge of Special Marshal and Partnership, Mr Olusegun Akinola, said that the corps would continue to educate tricycle operators for them to do the right things.

``You must make sure you lights are okay, your wipers and break system must be functional and make sure you do not over speed or overtake wrongly,’’ Akinola said.

The Coordinator of FRSC Special Marshals in Anambra, Mr Ben Osaka, advised the tricycle operators to get the Class –A driving license; adding that anybody driving without a due license is liable to N50,000 fine or six months imprisonment.

``And in worst case scenario, the person would be fined and still serve his six months imprisonment for violating the law,’’ he said.

Responding, the Chairman of All Tricycle Transporters Association, Mr Sylvester Obiorah, thanked the FRSC for the education; while assuring that the association would work closely with the corps to achieve the necessary standard.

``We are happy that the FRSC has decided to assist us to get through some of the problem encountered by our members,’’ Obiorah said.

The highlights of the interactive session were the distribution of FRSC numbers and presentation of a High-way Code Booklet to the chairman of the tricycle association. 

Photo of ABS 30th anniversary