Commercial drivers in Enugu State are protesting Governor Peter Mbah’s plan to introduce CNG buses, fearing it could put them out of business.
Tricycle operators and mini-bus drivers, already burdened with high taxes and alleged exploitation, say the governor’s initiative threatens their livelihood.
“We are not against bringing in CNG buses, but let the governor allow other private commercial transporters to coexist. Let there be competition,” said Michael Chimeze, one of the drivers.
Drivers have raised concerns that the introduction of CNG buses, controlled by a company suspected to have ties to the governor, could monopolize the state’s transportation routes.
The company has reportedly received N1.8 billion to operate the routes, raising fears of job losses for the thousands of drivers and workers dependent on them.
Chimeze Kingsley, another driver, expressed frustration, saying, “We have been paying all these taxes to support the government, but we cannot take the plan to drive us out of our businesses.”
Over the past 20 months, commercial drivers have faced significant increases in taxes, with daily payments rising from N350 to N1000. Drivers claim that such actions are exacerbating their financial struggles.
The drivers also questioned the feasibility of the government’s plans, including the proposed card payment system for the new buses, which they fear could be difficult for local passengers, particularly in rural areas, to access.
“We are not against bringing in their buses, but allow the regular vehicles to also ply. Keep your vehicle and allow private owners to ply; let competition exist,” said Celestine Nwakpa, another driver.
In response to these concerns, Chinwendu Odumegwu, spokesperson for the Enugu State Ministry of Transport, denied the allegations.
“The claims made by transport drivers about the government planning to drive them out of business in favor of a new company are unfounded,” he stated.
However, the drivers remain concerned about their future under the government’s new policy.