Tensions flared earlier today, 30th September 2024, between tricycle operators, also known as, keke riders and members of the Road Transport Employees Association of Nigeria drivers, also known as Korope drivers, at the Egbejila Junction on Asadam Road, in Ilorin. Diamond fm reporters were at the location to ascertain the cause of the disagreement.

An eye witness at the scene who spoke under anonymity disclosed that the tricycle operators normally charge N250 while the Korope drivers charge between N100 and N150. The fare differences was not the only issue. The tricycle operators also accused Korope drivers of encroaching on their designated loading and parking spaces, thereby reducing the space available for them to operate.

Local authorities have since intervened to calm the situation, and both parties have been called to a meeting. The Mogaji of Egejila, Mohammadu Jamiu, who was present at the scene to settle the dispute, the dispute had been lingering for about two weeks with the involvement of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corp, and also the office of the commissioner of police. He urged the unions to coexist in peace and find a way to resolve by signing an undertaking in order to forestall peace.

The outcome of the meeting is expected to determine whether further action will be taken to prevent a recurrence of such clashes. Meanwhile the branch chairman of the Keke Irorun Union, Amuda Mukaila, hesitated to speak with our reporters on the situation, saying he could not make any comment until the outcome of the meeting is finalised.