The Commercial Motorcycle and Tricycle Operators Association (COMTOA) has issued a strong warning to groups and individuals allegedly extorting tricycle and motorcycle operators in Delta State under the guise of collecting “check-off dues.”
Speaking at a press conference on Friday in Effurun, COMTOA State Treasurer, Mr. Miller OkeOghene—accompanied by other executive members—condemned the recent wave of harassment targeted at Keke and Okada riders by persons not recognized by the state government.
Mr. OkeOghene stressed that COMTOA remains the only authorized body permitted to interface with tricycle and motorcycle operators on such matters. He stated that any other association or group demanding payments is operating illegally.
He urged operators across the state to resist, report, and expose those attempting to extort them, adding that COMTOA will not tolerate further intimidation. According to him, the association is set to inaugurate a task force that will apprehend individuals or groups found forcing operators to pay unauthorized dues.
Mr. OkeOghene also highlighted that multiple court rulings have affirmed that matters concerning tricycle and motorcycle operations fall strictly under state jurisdiction, dismissing claims by some individuals who allege authority from a supposed national body.
He reaffirmed COMTOA’s commitment to protecting its members and ensuring a safe, lawful operating environment for all tricycle and motorcycle riders in Delta State.