True Vision Life: Unemployment Pushed Me to Keke Driving

Says Female English Language Graduate, but adds:

–Nothing Strange About Her Decision

” I encourage women to do any lawful business that brings them money in order to take care of themselves rather than depend on people for help all the time.”

It is exactly one year since Miss Unyime Asuquo, a graduate of English Language of the University of Uyo joined the tricycle riding business, popularly called ‘Keke’ in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital. In this exclusive interview with TRUE VISION, Miss Unyime narrated how she ventured into the business and her experience so far. Her message conveys both despair and hope. She comes across as one who epitomises the dignity of labour; of a focused personality, a role model of sorts and one, who despite the obvious favouritism that has unsettled many a weak heart, has her eyes set on the skies. She provides the curtain raiser in True Vision Life, our weekly focus on ordinary people who are doing uncommon things to overcome societal challenges.

Excerpts:

Good morning, please can you introduce yourself?

My name is Unyime Asuquo, a graduate of English Language Department, University of Uyo. I am an indigene of Uyo Local GovernmentArea, from Efiat Offot to be precise and for now I am a Keke rider.

How long have you been in this business?

I started in July 2020, so it’s exactly one year now since I started riding Keke.

What made you go into Keke riding?

Well, I bought the Keke with the intention of giving to someone to ride for me, that wasn’t successful, Then I started training my brother on how to ride but he did not show much interest in doing the business, so to avoid having problems with people, I decided to do the business myself since there was nothing else to do as at that time.

 One year on the road, how has it been coping with your male counterparts?

(Smiles) Initially it was not easy, some of the men tried bullying me but now I understand the business better. So I have no problem right now. I knew how to drive a car before now, so I understood the safety rules and guidelines on the road. I hate embarrassment so I renew my papers and buy my tickets, so I have no problem with the union or government agents.

Many people think Keke riding is predominantly for men, what reaction do you get when passengers realize you are a lady?

(Chuckles) I am not the only woman that rides Keke in Uyo. We have one that plies Aka road, another one that operates along Nwaniba, there’s one along Itam/Calabar-Itu way. For now I think we are up to seven in Uyo. It is not a new thing. In Lagos, Port Harcourt and Abuja there are many female bus drivers and Keke riders. Because of my head warmer and pullover many people do not notice I am a woman, but those who do always express surprise, but I am used to it now.

 Do you get encouragement or favours from your passengers?

Yes, I do. A lot of them are happy and encourage me to continue, many leave their ‘change’ with me as appreciation as soon as they realize, so I get favours and encouragement.

How happy are you riding Keke?

It is fun in a way and I love my colleagues, those we load at the same spot. They have become my friends now since my friends and roommates back in school are not staying in Akwa Ibom. So those guys are the closest friends to me now aside from my church members. Riding Keke is not what I dreamt of when I went to school and not certainly what I hope to do for long, this is just a phase in my life, I hope to get something befitting my qualification very soon.

What are the challenges you face?

Every business has its own challenge, Keke business has its own. You see me wear this pullover and head warmer even when it’s sunny.This is because I don’t want air to enter my body, so I protect myself. Sitting down for most of the day while riding can cause back and waist pain. These are some the risks involved in the business.

What would be your advice to women who may want to venture into the transportation business?

See, it was in the olden days that we had specific jobs designated for men and women; not today. We have female mechanics, welders, drivers, barbers etc, same way we have men venturing into hairdressing, cooking etc. I encourage women to do any lawful business that brings them money in order to take care of themselves rather than depend on people for help all the time.

In closing, what would be your final words?

I am a graduate of English Language; there are many things I can do but sadly these jobs are not available. When available, only those with connection are employed leaving others stranded. Government should do better and create job opportunities for graduates. There are many graduates riding Keke, Masters and PhD holders riding Keke in this Uyo. That is not normal.

Thank you for your time

UNYIME: You’re welcome.