FCTA Halts Drivers and Riders Levy After Protests

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has suspended the enforcement of drivers and riders' levies pending further consultations with stakeholders. This decision, communicated through a letter from the FCT Transport Secretariat, follows a protest by dispatch riders on February 19, 2023, who raised concerns about multiple taxation.

The protest, which saw thousands of riders participating, prompted FCTA Minister Nyesom Wike to intervene. Riders highlighted the financial strain caused by the current annual levy of ₦13,000 imposed by the Abuja Municipal Area Council, alongside a newly introduced ₦25,000 permit levy by the FCT Transport Secretariat.

They argued that these charges, combined with other fees, create a significant financial burden. The suspension of the levy enforcement is expected to facilitate broader engagement aimed at resolving the ongoing disputes regarding these levies.