FROM DELIGHT CHINEDUM, AWKA
A group of tricycle operators in Anambra state have thrown their weight behind the second term bid of Governor Chukwuma Soludo.
The operators, under the umbrella of Anambra Keke Drivers Forum (AKDF) said the decision to support Soludo’s second term was informed by his fearless and transformative leadership.
Addressing newsmen on Monday, during the endorsement and unveiling of stickers for Soludo’s reelection, State Coordinator, Comrade Osita Obi, expressed the group’s preparedness to return the governor to complete the good job he was doing.
He also appealed to the governor to facilitate the conduct of election for Keke drivers so that both the government and the tricyclists would enjoy the benefits therein.
“After inspection of roads, new government house and lodge, Funcity and other numerous projects delivered by the governor, the Keke drivers decided to endorse his second term bid.
“Soludo has halted touting to standstill. But it’s not yet uhuru because touting has not been finally eradicated. There’s what I call mindless extortion on Keke drivers. All of them have been eradicated.
“We’re here to tell him that he’s done wonderfully well for us and deserves a second term. Igbo says if you praise someone for what he has done, he’ll do more.
“We’re here to commend him for the ones he has done so he can do more. When we give him a mandate to continue, development will be taken to the highest level.
“When the campaign kicks off properly, no fewer than 10,000 Keke drivers will publicly endorse him. Today is just inhouse.
“We’re not just endorsing the governor, but as eligible voters, we’re going to use our voter’s card to make it possible.
“We’ve asked those without voters’ card to go and register. That’s what differentiates us from support groups who are interested in money.
“The people here today are representatives of Keke drivers drawn from all parts of Anambra, Onitsha, Nnewi, Ekwulobia and others.
“Those who came from outside Awka sponsored themselves. All the members are passionate about Soludo.
“We also seize the opportunity to call the governor to hasten up on the conduct of election for Keke drivers. There are many benefits therein,” he said.
Chairman of the group, Ifeanyi Okafor described Soludo as selfless, strong willed and God-sent leader, attributing his achievements to his courage and preparedness to step on toes.
He urged his members and citizens at large to support the governor to actualise his dreams.
“His concern is not about making money, but to leave a legacy in the state. His vision of Dubai is not a joke but will be reality in his second term. If it’s possible to go for a third term, I’ll support him,” he added.