ASTOPU Rolls Out Free Fuel To Tricyclists In Aba In Tribute To Governor Otti’s Road Transformation
In a commendable show of support for Governor Alex Otti’s remarkable strides in road infrastructure, the Abia State Tricycles Operators Union (ASTOPU) distributed free petrol to commercial tricyclists across Aba, the commercial heartbeat of Abia State.
The fuel palliative, carried out at major filling stations in the city, was ASTOPU’s way of celebrating the Governor’s efforts in transforming the road network—efforts that have significantly improved the ease of movement and business operations for tricyclists and other road users in the city.
Speaking during the flag-off, the Abia State Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Chimezie Ukaegbu, lauded the initiative and described transport operators as vital to the state’s development. “No state can truly develop without an efficient transport system. You are partner
s in progress,” he said. He encouraged the tricyclists to reciprocate government support by paying their dues and adhering to traffic regulations.
Dr. Ukaegbu also assured operators that the government remains committed to their protection and will continue to address their concerns, stressing that exploitation of any kind would not be tolerated.
Echoing similar sentiments, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transportation, Dr. Obioma Nwaogbe, emphasized that transportation is a catalyst for development. “This government is proud to support ASTOPU because of its structured leadership and coordination of tricycle activities across the state,” he said. “By paying your daily ticket levy and cooperating with government policies, you’re helping build a better Abia.”
ASTOPU Chairman, Mr. Victor Azubuike, said the free fuel distribution was a token of appreciation to the Governor for the new lease of life his administration has brought to transporters in the city. “Before now, we constantly visited mechanics due to poor road conditions. Today, our operations are smoother, our tricycles are lasting longer, and we are spending less on repairs,” he said.
He also praised Governor Otti’s water control measures, stating that proper drainage has made the new roads more durable and safe for users. “We are proud to align with His Excellency’s vision. We feel the impact directly, and we are happy to be part of the progress,” Azubuike added.
Several beneficiaries of the fuel palliative, including Mr. Kingsley Nwachukwu and Mr. Akachi Orji, expressed deep gratitude to both ASTOPU and the state government. “This is a great relief. Fuel is one of our biggest daily expenses, and this support couldn’t have come at a better time,” one of them remarked.
Fuel was dispensed at key locations such as Tonimas Filling Station on Aba-Owerri Road, New Filling Station along Enugu-Port Harcourt Expressway, Mainland Filling Station at MCC, and Conoil at Asa Road, among others.
The gesture marks a notable synergy between the state government and grassroots transport operators, signaling continued progress under Governor Otti’s leadership.
