Commercial tricycle riders in Warri and Sapele, Delta State, took to the streets on Tuesday to protest new rules introduced by the state’s Traffic Management Authority (DESTMA). The operators accused DESTMA of enforcing a policy that targets tricycles carrying more than three passengers, or those fitted with side curtains, metal carriers, or trampolines.
Carrying placards and palm fronds, the protesters marched through Deco Road and Okumagba Estate Roundabout in Warri. A similar demonstration was held at Amukpe Roundabout in Sapele, causing brief traffic disruptions.
Some of the placards read: “Load Wey Keke Dey Carry No Be the Problem for Delta” and “Okowa Police, Delta is Peaceful, We Don’t Want Problem.”
One of the tricycle riders, Onajited Joseph, complained that a new tricycle costs around ₦6 million on hire purchase, and it’s impossible to repay such a loan without carrying full capacity. “How are we going to meet up?” he asked.
Another operator, Monday Ikechukwu, said the tricycle business was their only means of survival. “We are the only hustlers in this state. Delta government should let us breathe,” he said.
Attempts to reach the Director-General of DESTMA, Mr. Okiemute Essien, were unsuccessful, as calls and messages to his phone went unanswered.
