By Kemi Olatunde

The Ondo State Government has relocated tricycle riders in Akure, the state capital, to designated parks in a bid to reduce accidents and ease traffic congestion on major roads.

  Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Transport, Chief Segun Odusanya, disclosed this during a stakeholders’ meeting in Akure.

According to a statement signed by the Head of Media and Publicity at the Ministry, Oluwakemi Adedeji-Adeyemi, and made available to Weekend Hope, the meeting brought together, key stakeholders to discuss and address the issue of indiscriminate parking and loading by tricycle operators on major roads in Akure.

The statement read, “It was resolved at the meeting that tricycle operators along the Arakale Road axis are to relocate to Sammy Park and Nepa Park to ensure free-flowing traffic.

“Additionally, a mobile court has been established by the state government to prosecute road traffic offenders in the state. All tricycles plying the state’s roads must be registered, licensed, and painted yellow and blue, and failure to comply will attract penalties.

“The commencement of  Riders and Drivers Training Institute was also announced. The primary objective of this institute is to provide comprehensive training to prospective riders on essential riding etiquette, as well as issue Riders’ Licences.

“Furthermore, the institute will offer retraining programmes for drivers, focusing on the safe use of roads in accordance with global best practices.”

Ayodele Adeleye, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Special Duties and Strategy, commended the state government for prioritising citizens’ safety and well-being.

Other attendees at the meeting included the State Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers, Comrade Ademola Odudu, representatives from the Nigeria Police, Okada riders, and Maruwa operators.