Osogbo Mini-Bus Drivers Raise Fares Amid Fuel Protests

Mini-bus commercial transport operators in Osogbo, Osun State, have implemented a new fare structure, with passengers now paying up to N1,200 on certain routes. This decision was made by the Association of Korope Drivers during a peaceful protest on Wednesday, prompted by escalating fuel and vehicle maintenance costs.

The revised fares include N300 for shorter routes and between N400 and N1,200 for longer journeys. Abdulwasiu Osuolale, a representative of the drivers, expressed concerns regarding the management of daily transport ticket revenues, alleging that some individuals collecting these proceeds were not remitting them to the government.

The protest, which began at 7:00 am, aimed to inform residents about the fare increase and the reasons behind it. Emmanuel Olowu, Executive Director of the Socio-Economic and Civic Rights Advocacy, supported the drivers' right to express their grievances and emphasized the need for authorities to address their concerns regarding ticket collection and administration.