Commercial drivers along Upper Sakponba Road in Benin City staged a protest on Monday. They blocked major sections to oppose the recent petrol price increase. As a result, traffic flow slowed significantly across the busy transport corridor. Furthermore, the drivers urged colleagues to raise fares immediately. They warned passengers to expect higher charges during every trip.
Otherwise, they threatened to drop non-compliant passengers midway. Consequently, the protest disrupted movement and stranded many commuters. Several passengers trekked long distances to bypass the roadblocks. Drivers mounted barricades at Aifuwa Street and Pioneer Junction.
One protesting driver explained the harsh economic realities facing operators. He revealed that petrol prices rose from N870 to N1,350 per litre. Therefore, transport earnings no longer match rising daily fuel expenses. Additionally, he stressed that drivers struggle to support their families. Daily operational costs now exceed reasonable income margins. This situation forces drivers to reconsider existing transport fares.
Meanwhile, a passenger described her experience during the disruption. She encountered the blockade while travelling from Ring Road. Drivers asked passengers to disembark before reaching their destinations. Subsequently, she decided to cross the roadblock on foot.
She planned to board another vehicle after navigating the disruption. Notably, rising fuel costs continue to affect transportation across the city. Fares from Idogbo to Ring Road have increased significantly. Likewise, fares from Ikpoba Hill have also surged sharply. Overall, commuters now face higher transport costs and daily travel uncertainties.
