Minibus drivers operating along the Mowe-Ibafo-Arepo corridor of the Lagos-Ibadan Expressway are embroiled in a heated dispute with transport union executives over a recent increase in daily levies. On Monday, drivers protested against what they described as excessive fees imposed by union workers, commonly referred to as agberos, which have placed an overwhelming financial strain on them.

The drivers disclosed that daily union fees have surged from N4,000 to approximately N6,000, compounding their difficulties amid soaring fuel prices and escalating vehicle maintenance costs. During the protest, they held placards bearing messages such as “We are tired of extortion” and “Governor Abiodun, come to our aid.”

Daniel Ademoyegun, one of the drivers, voiced his frustration, stating that the increased levies have severely impacted his earnings, making it challenging to afford his children’s education. Another driver, Benjamin Joseph, appealed to the state government for intervention, revealing that agberos have threatened to damage vehicles if the levies are not paid.

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The drivers are calling for the reversal of the recent fee hike and advocating for a unified ticket system to eliminate the need to pay at every bus stop. Moses Prosper, another protester, argued that the multiple tickets they are required to purchase are unjustified and lead to unnecessary financial burdens.

In response, Tiwalade Akingbade, the Ogun State Secretary of the Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria, refuted the drivers’ claims, suggesting that the situation arose from a misunderstanding that had been resolved at the police station. Efforts to obtain a comment from Gbenga Dairo, the state Commissioner for Transportation, were unsuccessful at the time of reporting.