By Karen James
In a heartwarming show of solidarity and grassroots support, the Tricycle Owners and Riders Association of Nigeria (TOAN), Awka Zone, has pledged a resounding thirty-five thousand votes to Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo ahead of the November 8 gubernatorial election in Anambra State.
The declaration was made by Prince Collins Ozojiofo, the vibrant chairman of TOAN Awka Zone, during a press briefing in the capital city. He stated that the association, with a formidable membership strength of over 30,000 across Anambra and 5,000 in the Awka Zone alone, has resolved to stand solidly behind Governor Soludo’s re-election bid.
“We are not just pledging votes — we are giving him our minds, our hearts, and our full support,” Ozojiofo said with emotion. “Soludo has done marvelously well, and it is only fair that we return the favour with our votes and our loyalty.”
The association hailed Governor Soludo’s impactful governance, especially the formation of the Special Anti-Tout Squad (SASA) led by the tireless Hon. Monday Nwokoye, whose efforts have transformed the lives of tricycle riders across the state. Ozojiofo credited the team, particularly the duo of Mr. Ikenna Nzeribe (aka Amicable) and Mr. Denis Okodi (aka De King), for restoring order and dignity to daily operations in areas like Awka South, Ifite, and Onitsha.
“Before SASA came on board, we were harassed daily. Touts extorted up to ₦4,000 from our members in broad daylight. Today, our riders move freely. We owe that to Soludo and his team,” he said passionately.
Echoing the sentiment, Mr. Sunday Maduabrochukwu, Chief Taskforce Officer of TOAN Awka Zone, noted that the difference SASA has made is “as clear as daylight,” pointing to peace and sanity across Awka, Nnewi, Amawbia, and Oko.
Keke rider Mr. Ikenna Mgbrchi added his voice: “Even heaven knows that Governor Soludo deserves our votes. The roads, the new government house, the Solution Fun City — these are not promises. These are achievements.”
He concluded with a powerful affirmation: “Soludo is not just a governor; he is a Solution. Come November 8, TOAN will vote 100% for him. No turning back.”
With enthusiasm radiating from the tricycle community and the streets echoing support, it is clear that TOAN’s endorsement is not just political—it’s personal.
