By Frank Ulom
Commercial drivers in Cross River State have embarked on an industrial action over what they termed as ‘excessive taxation, harassment, and alleged extortion from security agencies.
According to a notice of total shutdown and industrial action addressed to all commercial drivers, security agencies and the general public by the Cross River State Intercity Drivers Union this June, a consensus agreement was reached by the Executive Committees (Excos) of the various drivers’ unions, directing that “there will be a total shutdown of all driving activities across the state effective from 15th June 2026.”
According to the notice signed by Pst. Johnson Julius Besebe (State Chairman) and Odido Ogar (Secretary), for the Executive Committee, “This difficult decision has been reached due to the following unresolved grievances:
1. Excessive Taxation: Our members are being burdened with unsustainable and excessive levies that are crippling our livelihoods.
2. Harassment by Government Touts (Agboros): The constant disturbance and physical harassment of our drivers by unauthorised government agents (Agboros) while they performing their legitimate businesses must stop.
3. Extortion by Security Agencies: We strongly condemn the constant harassment and extortion of monies from our drivers by personnel of the Nigerian Army, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), VIO, and the Nigeria Police Force.”
“All divers are directed to withdraw their services and stay off the roads until further notice.
“Any driver found violating this directive or operating during this shutdown period will be mandated to pay a fine of N50,000.00 (Fifty Thousand Naira).
“We urge all members to remain peaceful but firm in this resolve as we seek a better working environment and an end to these exploitative practices,” the notice added.
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