By: Felix Ikpotor
Commercial drivers in Rivers State have staged a peaceful in the capital city of Port Harcourt, demanding an immediate end to alleged forms of harassment, extortion, and multiple levies imposed by touts, popularly known as ‘agberos’.
The protesting drivers understanding the umbrella of Commercial Drivers Welfare Association (CDWA), displayed placards bearing inscriptions such as: “Say no to agbero in Rivers,” “Governor, help us end agbero in Rumuola,” “Multiple unlawful levies must stop,” and “Operation ban agbero now,” while marched to yhe Government House and Police Headquarters.
Addressing journalists during the protest, Chairman of CDWA, Comrade Christopher Ezeali, said the activities of road touts on major roads across the state is increasing the economic hardship faced by drivers.
He lamented that despite long working hours, many drivers earn meagre returns due to what he termed “illegal and excessive levies,” noting that operators often struggle to meet basic financial obligations, including vehicle repayments and repairs.
The drivers’ leader called for a total clampdown on agberos operating in flashpoints such as Rumuola, Rumuokoro, Ikwerre Road, Abacha Road, Eleme Junction, and other busy corridors within Port Harcourt.
He said, “We are here to formally present our grievances to the Rivers State Government led by His Excellency, Governor Siminalayi Fubara. We have exhausted every peaceful channel, including media engagements, yet our situation continues to deteriorate daily.
“We work from morning till night, yet return home with almost nothing. The burden of multiple taxes and illegal collections is crippling our livelihood. Some of our members acquired vehicles on hire purchase, but these obligations are now threatened due to these exploitative practices,” he stated.
He further warned that continued inaction could escalate tensions, stressing that the association is committed to peaceful engagement but fears a breakdown of order if the situation persists.
He outlined key demands, including the introduction of a harmonised electronic tax system to ensure transparency and eliminate multiple taxation, and an outright ban on the sale of local government tickets allegedly imposed on drivers across the 23 local government areas.
The drivers further urged the state government to caution the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) against unlawful enforcement actions on non-members, warning that such practices could trigger avoidable conflicts.
“We are also appealing to the Commissioner of Police for adequate patrol teams at Aba Road and Ikwerre Road, on daily basis from 6 p.m. to 6 p.m. Mostly Eleme Junction, Atillary, Genesis, Garrison, UTC, Emenike Junction, Ikoku Flyover, Rumuola and other locations. It will reduce car theft and attacks on drivers and passersby.
“Finally, let the state government order; and advise the National Union of Road Transport Workers to desist from the unlawful enforcement of their own membership tools on our members to avoid clash that may lead to loss of life, even when matters are still proceeding in court. The police authorities should also investigate and bring to book the DPOs,” he added.
Responding on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju, the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, Ikechukwu Okoro, commended the protesters for maintaining a peaceful approach.
He urged the protesters not to resort to self-help or violence, emphasizing that the police would not tolerate any breakdown of law and order.
“We have listened carefully to your concerns and appeal. Be assured that your message will be communicated to the Commissioner of Police. The Nigeria Police remains committed to protecting lives and property.
“Do not take the law into your hands. We will not allow any bloodshed. As you disperse, ensure there is free flow of traffic and continue to conduct yourselves peacefully,” Okoro said.
