The Chairman, Idemili North Local Government Area in Anambra State, Mr Stanley Nkwoka, has reached strategic partnership agreement with tipper drivers in the state for Governor Charles Soludo’s re-election.
They also agreed to work together to address the challenges facing the union, particularly extortion and harassment.
Speaking during a meeting with the 74-member executive of the Tipper Drivers Union, Nkwoka urged the drivers to unite with one voice to effectively engage with the government and resolve longstanding issues.
“It is better to form a common front for the actualization of Governor Soludo’s second term bid.
“After that, we can present our collective demands for actions. I pity anyone who thinks he can challenge Soludo and win. He will just be wasting his money,” he stated.
Nkwoka, a former tipper driver, said his election as Chairman is a testament to Governor Soludo’s commitment to inclusivity.
“When my name was considered for this role, many questioned how a tipper driver could be appointed a mayor.
“But the governor ignored those gossips because he is rational and meticulous. That’s why I am here today,” he said.
Partnership that works
Nkwoka assured the union that the partnership with government would lead to greater recognition and lasting solutions to their problems.
“The governor listens. If we work together with him, we can resolve every challenge.
“The tipper driver is not a criminal but a hard-working citizen who lives off the sweat of his brow,” he added.
“Your vehicles rarely go to the mechanic these days because of the good roads built by this administration.
“That is why we must support the government to continue his good works,” Nkwoka said.
Plea for solution
Responding, President of the Tipper Drivers Association, Mr. Augustine Akaigwe, expressed readiness to collaborate with the government.
He however lamented the persistent harassment of tipper drivers. “Our problems are too many.
“One of our members was arrested at a sandpit allegedly associated with gunmen.
“His truck has been impounded for four months, and we have made several attempts to secure its release with no success,” Augustine lamented.
“Drivers go to load sand, and security agents descend on them instead of the pit owners, who often flee the scene. It is unfair and unjust,” he said.
The Chairman of the Onitsha Tipper Drivers, Mr. Ebuka Unekwe, also expressed concerns about the intimidation they face from a group known as “Ndi Aka Odo” at the Oba sandpit.
“We supported Soludo in the last election, and we are still willing to support him.
But he must show us mercy and end the daily hardship we endure from both state and non-state actors.” he pleaded.
Chairman of the Tipper Drivers Board of Trustees (BoT), Comrade Ogechukwu Ndozie, highlighted systemic issues facing members.
“All government agencies treat us like we are not from Anambra.
“They have reduced the levies for Keke and bus drivers but we still pay heavily and also on every trip.”
“We commend the Governor’s good work, but we are suffering. The government agencies threaten our ability to work and take care of our families.” he stated.
