Economic Hardship: Keke Napep operators protests in Yobe

By Muhammad Maitela, Damaturu

The Keke Napep operators have embarked on protest in Damaturu, the Yobe State capital, under the Association of Tricycle Drivers (NAPEP), while they alleged extortion by the Yobe State Road Transport Agency (YOROTA).
The tricycle riders said the economy is unfavourable and the government is bringing more hardship on them.
The protesters added that, the agency is extorting payment of daily fees from their members, ordering fresh registration by every rider.
The protest is already crippling economic activities as many persons were seen stranded without means of transport to places of work. It is also affecting school children.
The State Chairman of the Tricycle Riders Association, Umaru Barau told Channels Television that the protest is illegal as they are not aware of it.
The chairman also said, he pledged to grant an interview after they met with security agencies and other stakeholders.
Meanwhile, the Yobe state Governor, Hon. Mai Mala Buni has warned that government would not condone any act capable of breaching public peace in the state.
In a Press Release signed by Mamman Mohammed, DG, Press, and Media Affairs to the Gov. Buni, said Governor gave the directive on Tuesday, saying government will not compromise safety and security of its citizens for anything.
He said government shall stand firm against anything and anyone that disrupts the relative peace and harmony enjoyed across the state.
Gov. Buni charged members of organizations, and associations (Keke Napep Operators) to always channel their grievances through constituted authorities and must not in any way take the laws into their hands.