The Ogun State Government, has issued a strong warning to union members in the Mowe-Ibafo axis, instructing them to desist from imposing multiple levies on commercial mini-bus drivers, popularly known as Korope.
This warning comes in response to a peaceful protest staged by aggrieved drivers on Tuesday, September 24, over issues of multiple ticketing, vehicle vandalisation, and the illegal collection of marker fees.
The Commissioner for Transportation, Engr. Dairo Olugbenga, expressed the government’s displeasure at the illegal collections during a recent media briefing.
He noted that these acts have compounded the hardships faced by the mini-bus drivers, who are already struggling due to the current economic situation in the country.
“The Ogun State Government is aware of the concerns raised by the aggrieved drivers and is not happy with the added hardship they face.
“ We have responded swiftly to every report, even going undercover along the route to verify the allegations made against the union members,” Dairo said.
“After confirming the facts, we urgently addressed the issues and held meetings with all parties involved. Following extensive deliberations, we reached key resolutions.”
Among the resolutions agreed upon, Dairo highlighted that the daily ticket fee of ₦500, as collected by established motor garages, will remain the only valid levy.
The government has also ordered the immediate cessation of the collection of marker fees from vehicles registered in Ogun State.
Furthermore, Dairo stressed that the practice of issuing multiple tickets from a single valid ticket is fraudulent and must stop immediately.
The vandalisation of vehicles by union members was also expressly prohibited.
The Commissioner urged union leaders to monitor their members’ activities closely and ensure compliance with these regulations, warning that failure to do so would result in further government intervention.
He reminded the protesting drivers that they are still bound by the union under which they operate and must adhere to its rules and regulations.
To ensure compliance with these directives, Dairo disclosed that the government has established a task force to conduct periodic checks on motor parks and transport operations across the state.
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