COMMERCIAL tricycle and motorcycle riders took to the streets today in Kwara State to protest the rising fuel prices.
They protested in key areas of the metropolis, including Oloje, Oko Olowo, and Zango, within the Ilorin East and Ilorin West local government areas, voicing their frustration over their inability to recoup the costs of fuel after daily operations.
The protests left commuters stranded in Ilorin, the state capital, as they faced significant challenges in finding transportation via motorcycles and tricycles.
As a result, many commuters were forced to walk long distances to reach their destinations.
One tricycle operator, Taye Dhikhrulahi, expressed that they are not even considering making a profit at this time, noting that it is difficult to recoup the money spent on fuel after operations.
He urged the government to take urgent action to prevent small businesses from collapsing and appealed to the federal government for assistance to help them stay afloat.
The protest also caused considerable disruptions in the city, with many motorists compelled to turn back or seek alternative routes. Shop owners along the busy Ibrahim Taiwo road were affected as well, with some having to temporarily close their businesses.
In response, Kwara State Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq has ordered the immediate deployment of buses to various parts of the metropolis to facilitate commuter movement.
According to a statement from the Chief Press Secretary to the governor, Rafiu Ajakaye, the buses will be available for free.
“The buses are intended to transport people to the most central destinations at no cost. We hope this will assist those attending the SUBEB job placement interviews, especially in the metropolis,” the statement read.
The governor also urged transporters and the public to remain patient regarding the recent fuel price increase, assuring that various government stakeholders are reviewing the situation with public welfare as a top priority.
“The inconveniences are regrettable, and we are confident that conditions will improve soon,” the statement concluded.