Commercial drivers in Ogun and Lagos states are expressing frustration over what they perceive as an alleged increase in daily levies through the purchase of various tickets in motor parks across the states.
Investigations conducted by Findwhosabi Metro at several motor parks revealed that commercial drivers are required to purchase multiple tickets with varying costs, ranging from N100 to N500. These tickets include those from various organizations and unions, such as the Road Transport Employers’ Association of Nigeria, National Union of Road Transport Workers, State Park and Garage Cleaners Commercial Bus Tickets, Lagos State Consolidated Daily Tickets, loading tickets, booking tickets, and marker tickets.
Union officials are responsible for enforcing these ticket payments, often using aggressive methods. Some drivers have shared their experiences of being harassed and subjected to fines if they don’t comply with ticket requirements. The frustration of the drivers stems from the fact that their earnings are already stretched thin due to expenses like fuel, conductor payments, vehicle maintenance, and more.
Drivers have expressed their dissatisfaction with the high costs of these tickets and the pressure they face from union officials. Despite a 25% reduction in ticket fees by the unions in response to increased fuel prices, drivers are still finding it challenging to operate profitably.
One female driver mentioned that sometimes her earnings from a day’s work are barely enough to cover the cost of fuel for the next day. Union officials acknowledge the challenges faced by drivers but also emphasize the need to generate revenue to support their operations.
In conclusion, the issue of ticket fees and levies is a source of frustration for commercial drivers in these states. Balancing the need for revenue generation by unions with the financial well-being of drivers remains a challenge that needs to be addressed by both parties and regulatory authorities.