A group of minibus drivers in Ogun State recently protested at the Ministry of Transportation complex in Abeokuta. They expressed dissatisfaction with what they claim are excessive levies and extortion by union executives. The drivers called on the state governor and the Commissioner for Transportation to intervene and put an end to the alleged harassment and unfair fees imposed on them.
The drivers highlighted their grievances, including the significant increase in daily union levies. They demanded a reversal of the heightened charges, elimination of multiple tickets, restriction of union activities to designated areas, and an end to arbitrary fees like “Owo Chairman,” “Owo King of Boys,” and “Owo Marker.”
One driver emphasized the financial burden the increased levies place on them, stating that they now have to pay around N11,000 daily. Another driver questioned the necessity of multiple tickets imposed in their area, emphasizing the economic challenges they face.
In response to the drivers’ complaints, a senior official from the Ministry of Transportation assured them that their concerns would be addressed. The official encouraged the drivers to submit their grievances in writing for proper consideration and action.
On the other hand, the Ogun State Secretary of the Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria dismissed the drivers’ claims as false, citing a resolved misunderstanding between the union and the drivers earlier on.