Commercial Drivers, Motorcyclists in Kwara Stage Protest Over Fuel Price Increase

Commercial activities came to a halt in Ilorin, the Kwara State capital, on Thursday as operators of commercial vehicles, tricycles, and motorcycles staged a protest against the recent hike in fuel prices.

The protesters blocked major roads, including Abdulazeez Attah, which links Geri Alimi to Oja Oba, Taiwo/Post Office, and the Post Office/Maraba/Zango routes, causing significant disruption to vehicular movement and business operations across the city.

Although some commercial vehicles were on the road early in the morning, by midday, many were forced off the streets. Large groups of stranded commuters gathered at bus stops, waiting for transportation to their destinations.

“We are now buying fuel at ₦1,200 per litre. After fueling our vehicles, there’s nothing left to feed our families,” one of the protesters lamented. “President Tinubu must reverse the price to ₦200, where he met it, if he wants Nigeria to continue existing,” they added as they marched through the streets.

In response, Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq ordered the immediate deployment of buses to various parts of the city to assist stranded commuters.

“The buses will transport people to central locations free of charge. This is especially helpful for those attending the SUBEB job placement interviews in the metropolis,” a statement signed by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Rafiu Ajakaye, said.

The governor also appealed for patience, assuring the public that government stakeholders were reviewing the situation with the people’s best interests in mind.

“We regret the inconveniences caused, but we are confident that things will improve as soon as possible,” the statement concluded.