- Tricycle operators in Damaturu protest against alleged unjust fines imposed by Yobe State Road Traffic Agency (YOROTA)
- Protesters express frustration over arbitrary fines and additional fees, disrupting transportation services and causing inconvenience to commuters
Damaturu, the capital of Yobe State, witnessed a tense atmosphere on Tuesday as commercial tricyclists took to the streets to protest what they deemed as unjust fines imposed by the Yobe State Road Traffic Agency (YOROTA).
The tricycle operators voiced grievances regarding alleged harassment and exorbitant fines for minor traffic infractions, coupled with demands for fresh registration for every rider.
Expressing frustration over the situation, students, commuters, and businesses bore the brunt of the protest, grappling with disrupted transportation services.
In interviews with Daily Trust, protesters recounted instances of arbitrary fines ranging from N5,000 to N20,000 for minor offenses, exacerbating financial strains on the operators.
Bukar Adamu, a tricycle rider, denounced the oppressive fines, stating, “Last year they imposed unnecessary charges, and now they demand additional fees for stickers and registration plates. We refuse to endure further harassment.”
Another rider, Babagana Mustapha, highlighted the economic hardships faced by operators amid rising fuel and food prices, emphasizing the impracticality of additional financial burdens.
As the strike persisted, commuters, including students and civil servants, grappled with the inconvenience of walking long distances to their destinations.
Urging governmental intervention, affected individuals called upon the governor to address the grievances promptly and implement alternative measures to alleviate the plight of commuters and businesses.
However, Alhaji Umaru Barau, Yobe State Chairman of the Tricycle Riders Association, criticized the protest, labeling it as unauthorized and ineffective in resolving grievances.
Barau emphasized the necessity of communication with the union leadership before resorting to protests, highlighting ongoing dialogues with relevant authorities to address concerns.
Efforts to reach the YOROTA leadership for comment were unsuccessful at the time of reporting, leaving the situation unresolved amidst escalating tensions.
The protest underscores the growing tensions between transport operators and regulatory authorities, underscoring the need for constructive dialogue and swift resolution to prevent further disruptions to public services.
See photos from the protest below:
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