Nigeria’s public transport system is like the engine that keeps the country moving, making it a crucial part of everyday life for Nigerians. The sector is mainly run by the informal sector and covers a bunch of ways to get around – big buses, smaller mini-buses, vans, even motorcycles, and tricycles known as ‘keke napep.’
By observation, more Nigerians count on this busy public transport network to get around for work and travel. But here’s the thing: the way tickets work in Nigeria is usually worse than the rides themselves.
There are problems like multiple tickets and illegal parking or loading fees. Oftentimes, drivers have had to add a little fighting skill along with their ability to drive. This skill is particularly useful in warding off unauthorized ticket collectors (Agberos). It is believed that with the way intra-city drivers in Nigeria are always ready to fight Agberos, they could easily defeat Anthony Joshua in a duel.
These issues are not just menial issues for drivers; they cause some serious money problems for the folks. Imagine cash disappearing and making things tough for the people keeping the wheels turning.
Transport Protests
The issue of extortion and harassment from the motor park management and Agberos is not new to drivers in Nigeria. Over time, drivers have protested to get the far-reaching attention of governments in several Nigerian cities.
In October 2022, commercial drivers in Lagos decided to take seven days to cool off in their homes and avoid increased and illegal tariffs.
Along with the increased cost of fuel and bad roads, increased and incessant park fees have not only increased transportation fares beyond the affordability of workers but also taken every good and service out of the reach of the poor Nigerians.
In 2020, there was a massive protest at Rukpokwu, in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, after a policeman shot dead a commercial tricycle (keke napep) driver over his alleged refusal to pay a N100 bribe.
Last year, chaos erupted in Ogbogoro community within the Obio-Akpor Council of Rivers State. ‘Keke Napep’ operators took to the streets, protesting what they alleged to be the unjust killing of one of their own by a local task force. The bone of contention? The victim could not pay the daily fee of N200.
The confrontation took a brutal turn as the task force leader and his members allegedly subjected the Keke operator to a series of blows, particularly targeting his chest. The crux of the dispute lay in the operator’s plea that he had just commenced his work for the day and had no funds to meet the demanded fee.
Several other physical assaults in Nigerian cities have become a stark reminder of the tensions and challenges that sometimes simmer beneath the surface of the everyday lives of commercial drivers in local communities.
Enabling Innovative System
Fixing this is not just about making things easier for drivers and passengers. It’s like giving the whole transportation system a boost. The way forward is to get smart with technology and use modern ways to handle tickets that make everything smoother.
If Nigeria invests in a better system, it’s not just about getting rid of the problems; it’s about making the whole country a leader in how transportation can work better in Africa. It’s time for an upgrade, not just for the people on the buses but for everyone involved in keeping Nigeria moving forward.
Groundbreaking inventions and proper park administration can truly transform the current narrative of commercial drivers in Nigeria. Technology has a cool way of doing things that suits everyone, whether you’re into technology or not.
In places like Nigeria, where folks are tech-savvy, transitioning to a park ticketing system that uses a website, an app, and a USSD feature makes it easy for everyone.
State governments must talk to the bus drivers and tricycle owners in their states, making sure they understand their needs. Doing this shows that Nigeria is ready for a big transformation in how commercial drivers operate.
