Hundreds of commuters found themselves stranded in Lagos due to an ongoing protest led by commercial drivers.
The commercial drivers were protesting against the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority, LASTMA, and Task force on Monday.
Protest Unfolds Across Lagos
The strike, initiated by commercial drivers to voice their opposition to extortion, led to a significant reduction in the number of commercial vehicles, leaving commuters stranded at various bus stops and motor parks.
The protest resulted in commuters being stranded across different bus stops in Lagos State on Monday. Commercial bus drivers expressed discontent over alleged arbitrary arrests and extortion by officials of LASTMA.
Withdrawal of Services
Drivers also took issue with the activities of officials from the Lagos State Environment and Special Offences Enforcement Unit. This left workers with no choice but to undertake long treks to reach their destinations.
The impact of the protest was felt in various parts of the state, including Egbeda, Ikeja, Iyana Ipaja, Agege, Yaba, and Iyana-Iba. Our correspondents observed transport workers staging processions at different locations.
Clashes with Authorities
Along the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, protesters faced resistance from police officers at the Mangoro end, resulting in the deployment of teargas canisters. Unfortunately, one commuter suffered an eye injury due to exposure to tear gas.
Passenger Displacement and Increased Fares
Some protesting drivers reportedly forced passengers out of buses whose drivers weren’t participating in the protest.
Protesting drivers, chanting various songs, expressed their determination to continue the protest until a lasting solution is found to address their grievances.
Drivers, such as Saheed speaking with Punch Metro pleaded for intervention, alleging that the actions of LASTMA have caused harm, even claiming a stroke-related death of a colleague.
As the standoff persists, commuters and drivers alike await a resolution, hoping for improved conditions and a collaborative effort between authorities and the transport sector.
