Tricycle operators in Anambra State, under the umbrella of the Tricycle Owners Association of Nigeria (TOAN), have announced their readiness to endorse Governor Chukwuma Soludo for a second term in office, citing his significant achievements in the state over the past three years.
The announcement was made by the TOAN State Chairman, Comrade Onyekwena Michael, during the election of new branch executives held at the Idemili North Local Government Secretariat in Ogidi. Michael stated that Governor Soludo’s commitment to road rehabilitation has greatly benefited tricycle operators, as many of the previously damaged roads they rely on have been repaired, reducing wear and tear on their vehicles.
He noted that the formal date for the endorsement would be announced soon and appealed to the governor to lift the suspension placed on tricycle operations in the state. Michael also emphasized the association’s contribution to the increase in the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) and described TOAN as a peaceful and law-abiding trade union.
“The governor has worked hard to improve the roads we use daily and has brought order to the transport sector. That is why we are prepared to endorse him for a second tenure,” he said.
The newly elected branch executives had previously been dissolved after allegations of electoral irregularities in an earlier election. The officials were re-elected unopposed by their members in what was widely described as a free and fair process.
State Secretary Linus Ufor praised the peaceful conduct of the election and urged the newly elected officials to uphold the integrity of the association. Other leaders, including Abatete Chairman Ezenwamadu Innocent, Owerri Road Branch Chairman Nnamdi Obumse, Idemili North Chairman Arinze Idemili, and Idemili South Chairman Ikenna Okeke, also expressed satisfaction with the election’s outcome.
The TOAN Legal Adviser, Sylvester Obiorah, a former state chairman, called on members to maintain good conduct and support the planned endorsement of Governor Soludo, especially in recognition of his work on the roads that benefit their operations.
The event also featured the presentation of certificates to the newly elected chairmen and the installation of the mayor of the council area, Chief Sylvester Nkwoka, as the patron of TOAN in Anambra State. Nkwoka praised Soludo’s administration, noting that the governor has accomplished in three years what previous administrations could not achieve in eight.
He encouraged the association to remain peaceful, especially when the current suspension on some trade unions is lifted, possibly within the next six months. He also emphasized that the upcoming election would be a significant moment for the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), urging TOAN members to work toward victory at every ward and polling unit.
TOAN leaders, including Comrades Onyekwena Michael and Linus Ufor, acknowledged that the suspension of certain trade unions was part of the governor’s strategy to improve the state’s revenue system. They reiterated that TOAN remains committed to working with all levels of government.
