Emulate Governor Umo Eno, embrace peace, unity for progress – Transport Commissioner tasks Unions, Stakeholders
…Warns against ticket racketeering
The Commissioner for Transport, Dr. Anthony Luke has called for peace, love and unity among the various registered transport unions, associations and committees in Akwa Ibom State.
The appeal came during a series of solidarity visits to the Commissioner in his office from various transport groups, including the Motorcycle Operators Union of Nigeria (MOUN), Join National Transport Safety Committee, Tricycle Management Committee Akwa Ibom State, Tricycle Owners Association of Nigeria (TOAN), Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Amalgamated Commercial Tricycle and Motorcycle Dealers and Repairers Association of Nigeria (ACOMORAN)
During the meetings, the Commissioner took time to address the lingering crisis among some associations within the transport sector in the state and stressed the importance of mutual respect, cooperation and peaceful coexistence among them.
While urging all stakeholders to embrace a “live and let live” philosophy, the Commissioner asserted that no meaningful development can take place in an atmosphere of rancour, bitterness and acrimony as conflicts will only hinder progress in the sector.
He charged the stakeholders to come together and resolve their differences amicably and made it clear that any group that fails to promote peace risks being proscribed, as the government values a harmonious environment for development.
He cited Governor Umo Eno as an exemplary leader who has prioritized peace in the state and charged them to emulate the governor and maintain peace in their associations.
Addressing ongoing legal disputes among some groups, the Commissioner urged them to consider out-of-court settlements, which would save them time and money while fostering a collaborative spirit.
“The Government needs a conducive environment to carry out its mandate and deliver dividends of democracy to the people. peace is essential for effective governance. So, you have to shun unnecessary rivalry among yourselves. I’ve not come to victimize anybody but to ensure the effective implementation of Governor Umo Eno’s policies as captured in the ARISE Agenda but I can’t achieve this without you, the stakeholders,” Dr. Luke stated
The Commissioner reassured transport unions that his administration is committed to improving their welfare and ensuring justice for all stakeholders involved in the transport sector and issued a stern warning to individuals engaged in the sale of fake tickets, vowing to take decisive action against such illicit activities and ensure they face legal repercussions.
Speaking, the State Chairman, Tricycle Management Committee Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Jeremiah Eseme Jackson thanked the Commissioner for finding time to meet them despite his busy schedule and lauded his fatherly disposition towards them.
Also, the State Chairman, Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria (RTEAN) , Comrade Godwin Christopher Edem who described the Commissioner as an “Icon of Peace” pledged the unalloyed support of the body to the Commissioner and Governor Umo Eno
He noted that as a mark of respect for the Commissioner, the group have resolved to sheath their sword and put all their differences behind them for peace sake.
The meeting was attended by the Management of the Ministry of Transport including the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Rose Edet Stephen and Directors from various departments.
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