On Monday, commercial drivers operating in the Mowe-Ibafo-Arepo areas of Ogun State staged a protest on the expressway, decrying the excessive levies imposed on them by transport union workers, commonly known as Agberos. The drivers, primarily minibus operators, expressed frustration over arbitrary fees that have significantly worsened their financial difficulties.

The protesting drivers revealed that the daily transport union levies, which previously totaled ₦4,000, were abruptly increased to ₦6,000 on Monday. They highlighted that the rise in fuel prices and vehicle maintenance costs had compounded the challenges they already faced.

One of the protesting drivers, Moses Ademoyegun, shared his plight, stating that the extortion by the Agberos has become unbearable. “The ticket fee has increased today. Bus stops where we used to pay ₦100 have been raised to ₦200, and others from ₦500 to ₦700. I spend no less than ₦100,000 on fuel weekly, and with passengers unable to pay higher fares, my income has dropped so low that I can no longer afford my children’s school fees.”

Another driver, identified as Joseph, called on the Ogun State government to intervene. “The Agberos impose multiple levies without offering any benefits to the drivers. If we refuse to pay, they damage our vehicles. We are appealing to Governor Dapo Abiodun to put an end to this extortion.”

As the protest continues, drivers remain hopeful for government intervention to alleviate the financial burdens caused by the increased levies and the rising cost of living. Further updates are expected.