Commercial drivers operating along Upper Sakponba Road in Benin, Edo State, on Monday staged a protest by blocking parts of the busy road over the recent increase in petrol prices.
The drivers also called on their colleagues to immediately raise transport fares, warning that passengers who insist on paying old rates could be asked to pay extra or be dropped midway.
The protest caused heavy disruption, leaving many commuters stranded. Several passengers were seen trekking long distances to bypass roadblocks mounted at Aifuwa Street and Pioneer Junction.
One of the protesting drivers, who identified himself as John, said the action was necessary for their survival, pointing to the sharp rise in the price of petrol from about N870 to N1,350 per litre.
“We were buying fuel for N870 before, and we carried passengers for N500. Now fuel is N1,350 and fares are still the same. How do you expect us to survive?” he said.
He added that daily operational costs have become unbearable. “You buy fuel worth N25,000 in a day and still settle the vehicle owner. What is left to take care of your family?”
Passengers also expressed frustration over the situation. One commuter, who preferred to remain anonymous, said she was forced to stop her journey midway after drivers blocked the road.
Read Also;
Man Accused of Killing Girlfriend Over Alleged Infidelity in Cross River
“I was coming from Ring Road. When we got to Oka Market, the drivers blocked the road and asked everyone to come down. I had to carry my load and walk so I could find another bus,” she said.
The rising cost of petrol has already led to increased transport fares across Benin City. Trips that previously cost between N500 and N700 now go for as high as N800 to N1,000 on several routes, including Idogbo to Ring Road and Ikpoba Hill to Ring Road.
