Commuters in Lagos are currently tense as commercial bus drivers, organized under the Joint Drivers Welfare Association of Nigeria (JDWAN), have declared a seven-day strike.
The drivers vowed to discontinue their services beginning Monday, October 31, 2022, in response to what they called widespread extortion of their members by urchins.
They have threatened to boycott services throughout the state in response to alleged multiple and excessive extortion of their members by the management of parks and garages in the state, as well as those affiliated with the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and the Road Transport Employers Association Association of Nigeria (RTEAN).
The Daily Trust previously reported a deadly brawl between traders at the Alaba International market in Ojo and urchins over extortion.
Two people were killed in a scuffle at Ojo’s famed electrical market around two weeks ago.
According to our correspondent, who toured around the several parks in the state, most drivers indicated they would not come out with their buses for fear of being attacked by urchins working for the various transport unions.
Those who talked indicated they are worried that union members will terrorize them for daring to defy their power.
“I don’t think I’ll come out tomorrow because I’ve had previous experience with motor park touts attacking each driver they see.” I’m sure they’ll wreck any business bus. I don’t want my car to be ruined.
“If you report an attack to the police, you are on your own.” No cop will come to your help. “The cops also rely on touts to collect their own money,” a motorist explained.
Another driver on the LASU-Igando road, Tolu Animashaun, claimed they had been urged to avoid using state roads in solidarity with the demonstration.
“The protest is justified,” he remarked. The driver’s house money is deposited in a private account.
It is not used for any repair work. The state government should restrict their operations to garages and not the road.
“It’s unfortunate that drivers are required to pay at every bus stop.”
It was also revealed that truck drivers decided to participate in the demonstration. Some of the truck drivers claimed to be the most extorted.
The drivers complained that, despite their dedication to their jobs, the management of state transportation agencies, vehicle parks and garages, and the Lagos State caretaker committee had subjected them to indiscriminate extortion and violent harassment.
When reached, Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer Benjamin Hundeyin stated that the command has tightened its security network within and surrounding the state to prevent a breakdown in law and order.
He stated that the command would deal decisively with anyone or any group of people who choose to do so.
“Anyone or any group has the right to protest as long as they do it within the bounds of the law.” Anyone apprehended for attempting to disturb the state’s peace would face consequences.
“The Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alabi, has told all Lagosians that they can go about their daily lives without worry.” “We are here to defend the lives and property of individuals who call this state home,” he stated.