Ogun Commercial Drivers Protest Against Multiple Levies

Aggrieved commercial drivers operating in the Mowe-Ibafo-Arepo areas of Ogun State, stormed the expressway on Monday, to protest against the multiple levies imposed by transport union officials, commonly known as Agberos.

The drivers, mostly minibus operators, voiced their frustration over the arbitrary fees they are required to pay daily, which they say have pushed them into severe financial hardship.

According to the drivers, the daily union charges, previously set at ₦4,000, were suddenly increased to ₦6,000 on Monday.

This comes at a time when they are already grappling with rising fuel prices and escalating vehicle maintenance costs.

Speaking to PUNCH Online, a driver, Moses Ademoyegun, explained that the continuous extortion by the Agberos has made it nearly impossible to sustain his livelihood.

He noted that the recent fee hike, coupled with the general economic strain, has even forced him to pull his children out of school due to dwindling income.

He said, “What we are experiencing from the Agberos has become unbearable. Today, we woke up to the news that the ticket fee has increased. Bus stops where we used to pay ₦100 have now increased to ₦200, and those where we paid ₦500 have gone up to ₦700.

“I spend no less than ₦100,000 on fuel every week, and passengers are also groaning and unwilling to pay enough to cover the cost of fuel. My children are at home because I cannot afford their school fees due to the decline in what I earn daily.”

Another driver, Joseph, echoed Ademoyegun’s concerns, urging the Ogun State government to step in and address the situation.

He expressed frustration at the union executives, accusing them of offering no benefits to the drivers despite the numerous fees collected.

“We are facing a lot from the Agberos, who offer no benefits to the drivers. If you don’t pay them, they are ready to damage your vehicle.

“We are appealing to Governor Abiodun to intervene and put an end to this extortion,” Joseph said.