Our reporter
Edo State was plunged into unrest on Monday as transporters and traders took to the streets to protest the growing menace of thugs who have been harassing, extorting, and intimidating members of their communities.
The protest, which caused severe traffic congestion along the Oluku area of Benin City, was sparked by mounting complaints of illegal levies imposed by criminal elements, often referred to as “agberos,” on commercial bus drivers and traders. According to the protesters, motor parks, major bus stops, and even markets across the state have become dangerous battlegrounds, where thugs engage in violent acts of extortion.
With placards reading slogans such as “Say No To Illegal Revenue Collection by Thugs,” and “Stop the Harassment and Extortion in Edo State,” demonstrators expressed frustration over the daily violence and intimidation they face. Many drivers have reported being physically assaulted, their vehicles damaged, or threatened with worse if they refuse to comply with the thugs’ demands for money.
Osas Davies, a commercial bus driver, shared his experience, recounting how he and his colleagues are subjected to daily exploitation. “If we refuse to pay these illegal fees, they beat us, destroy our vehicles, and make threats against our lives,” Davies said. “This has gone on for too long. We cannot keep living in fear.”
The protests, which affected commuters across the region, were further supported by members of the public, including Ikponwonsa, a commuter who found himself stranded due to the protests. “The way these thugs treat the drivers is inhumane,” he said.
“It affects the price of transportation and makes life harder for everyone. The government must act quickly to address this crisis.”
In addition to transporters, market traders are also bearing the brunt of the thugs’ exploitation. One trader, speaking on condition of anonymity, described how criminal elements invade markets, demanding heavy levies under threat of violence.
“If you can’t pay, they seize your goods. We are just trying to make a living, but these thugs are making it impossible,” she said.
The protesters have warned of a further escalation of their actions if the authorities fail to take swift action. “If nothing is done soon, we will be forced to shut down key roads and economic activities in the state until this violence is brought to an end,” said one of the protest leaders.
The protests have highlighted the severe impact of criminal gangs on the state’s economy and the daily lives of its residents. As the State government faces growing calls for intervention, it remains to be seen whether any substantial measures will be taken to address the situation.
Get a premium automobile insurance coverage for your vehicle for as low as #15000 only and claim up to #3,000,000 in damages @Zenith Insurance To signup: WhatsApp/Call: +2349028313757
