Plateau Transport Ministry Clarifies Tricycle Digitization Exercise, Dismisses Extortion Claims
The Plateau State Ministry of Transportation has clarified issues surrounding the ongoing tricycle operator registration and digitization exercise being carried out in partnership with GIOPAT DC, describing claims circulating on social media as misleading and inaccurate.
In a press statement issued by the Ministry, authorities said the exercise is a government-approved initiative aimed at creating a reliable database of transport operators across Plateau State as part of efforts to modernize the transportation sector.
The Ministry explained that the biometric registration process is being conducted in line with national data protection regulations and established government procedures, contrary to allegations suggesting otherwise.
According to the statement, the biometric component of the exercise is intended to improve security within the transport sector, assist in identifying operators, aid the recovery of stolen vehicles, and help curb criminal activities linked to gaps in transport regulation.
The Ministry assured operators that all information collected during the registration process would be used strictly for official regulatory and security purposes.
Addressing concerns over registration fees, the Ministry clarified that the charges are contained in the Plateau State Consolidated Revenue Law and remain legally enforceable within the state’s transport regulatory framework.
It disclosed that the approved fees include a ₦4,790 PT renewal fee and a ₦2,700 bio-data and QR code registration fee.
However, the Ministry noted that government-approved concessions had been introduced to reduce the financial burden on operators and encourage wider participation in the digitization programme.
The statement explained that the fees support critical aspects of the transport modernization initiative, including biometric data capture, secure documentation, operator identification, database management, and enhanced security measures.
The Ministry dismissed suggestions that the exercise was designed for extortion or unauthorized revenue generation, insisting that such claims do not reflect the objectives of the programme.
It further stated that the digitization exercise forms part of the broader vision of the Plateau State Government to modernize transportation, improve safety standards, strengthen accountability, and position operators to benefit from future government interventions, financing opportunities, cooperative schemes, and sector-wide development initiatives.
The Ministry emphasized that modern transport systems globally are increasingly data-driven and stressed that Plateau State must not be left behind in the transformation process.
While acknowledging the important role tricycle operators play in the state’s economy, the Ministry reiterated its commitment to continuous engagement with recognized transport unions and stakeholder groups.
It added that constructive feedback remains welcome and assured stakeholders of its openness to dialogue aimed at improving implementation while safeguarding the interests of operators and the public.
The Ministry also appealed to residents of Plateau State to rely on official government channels for information and avoid spreading unverified claims capable of creating unnecessary tension or misunderstanding.
It reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the development of a safe, efficient, and beneficial transportation system for all residents of the state.