Governor Abiodun
Taxi drivers in Ogun State this morning led a peaceful protest march to Governor Dapo Abiodun’s office to complain about the unceasing harassment of its members by the state Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Corps (TRACE).
The taxi drivers also seized the opportunity of the protest to beg for government intervention in other myriads problems confronting them.
One of the spokesmen of the taxi drivers, Mr. Tijani Lukmon lamented the attendant effect of Covid-19 Pandemic on them and appealed to government to come to their aid.
He said the latest increase in Petroleum pump price may send many of them out of transportation business, if government did not rescind its decision on the fuel pump price hike.
Mr Lukmon also called for more measures to further cushion the negative effect of the Covid-19 Pandemic on the people of the state.
Another spokesperson of the Association, Adesina Adebankole appreciated Governor Abiodun for addressing them and commended the ongoing massive rehabilitation of roads across the State.
Meanwhile, the taxi drivers have been assured of government’s continued protection against any form of harassment by law enforcement officers, provided their daily activities are exercised under the confines of the law.
The State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun represented by his Chief of Staff, Alhaji Shuaib Salisu gave this assurance while addressing the taxi drivers association, Taxi Operators and Owners Association, Ogun State Chapter, who were on a peaceful protest to his office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.
Governor Abiodun said government would continue to ensure that their rights were adequately protected and commended them for the peaceful manner in which they conducted themselves during the protest.
He stated that the decision of the State government to reduce passengers to three, was only implemented towards ensuring passengers and taxi operators’ safety, as part of resolve to observe Covid-19 protocols.
He urged the taxi drivers to report any harassment by TRACE officers to higher authorities, having complied with all traffic laws
He assured them that “a directive will be forwarded to TRACE that anyone who comply with the Covid-19 protocols and other traffic laws should not be harassed”.
In case of any intimidation, he gave them the office numbers to call and lodge their complaints.
