By AbdulRaheem Aodu
Kaduna state Governor, Dr Mukhtar Yero, yesterday flagged off the distribution of 1, 000 tricycles to commercial motorcyclists to engage them, keep them away from crime and provide means of transportation for people affected by the ban on commercial motorcycle in the state.
The state banned the operation of commercial motorcycle in parts of Kaduna metropolis, Zaria, Sabon Gari, Kafanchan, Lere, Brinin Gwari and Giwa in
March 2014, citing security reasons and injuries from frequent accidents amongst other reasons.
Yero said of the 1, 000 tricycles, 400 would be given to commercial motorcyclists from Kaduna North, Kaduna South and parts of Igabi and Chikun local government areas. Zaria and Sabon Gari local government areas would benefit 300 tricycles, 150 would go to Kafanchan metropolis, while 50 tricycles would go to designated areas in Lere, Birnin Gwari and Giwa local government areas.
He said: “We are set to distribute 1, 000 tricycles to reduce the difficulties of transportation in our urban and semi urban centres as well as create jobs for people especially those initially disengaged in commercial motorcycle business.
“The cost of each tricycle is N531, 825 plus number plate registration, taxes, painting, inscription and 12 months comprehensive insurance. Beneficiaries are expected to pay back only 50 per cent of the total cost within a period of 12 months. A beneficiary is required to make a deposit of N67, 000 which is 25 percent of the subsidised rate before taking the tricycle.”
The state chairman of Sure-P, who is also the deputy governor, Ambassador Nuhu Bajoga, said the tricycles were purchased under the Kaduna state 2013 Sure-P programme to alleviate the suffering of the common man.
He urged the beneficiaries to make judicious use of the tricycles and be orderly.