Commercial drivers in Port Harcourt have accused the Rivers State Government of failing to address concerns over illegal levies, harassment, and the destruction of vehicles by touts, popularly known as agberos.
The Chairman of the Commercial Drivers Welfare Association of Rivers State, Christopher Ezeali, said months after a solidarity march to Government House, drivers have not seen any improvement in their situation.
According to him, commercial drivers and passengers continue to face intimidation and abuse daily. He identified the Rumuola area as a major hotspot for criminal activities targeting motorists and commuters.
Ezeali also alleged that a commercial driver was recently stabbed to death by suspected touts in the Ikuku area of the state. He expressed concern over what he described as the growing influence of touts and the failure to bring perpetrators of violent attacks to justice.
He called on the Rivers State Government to take urgent action to address the problem and prevent drivers from resorting to self-help. He also urged the Rivers State House of Assembly to implement the 2024 Consolidated Tax Reforms for motorists to improve the welfare and safety of road users.
