Osun minibus operators protest high fuel price, demand CNG stations

Commercial minibus drivers in Osogbo, Osun State, known as Korope, have staged a protest over the escalating cost of petrol and the lack of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) refuelling stations in the region. On Wednesday, the drivers halted their vehicles temporarily at Ayetoro, temporarily halting traffic in a bid to highlight their plight. The protest was sparked by the high cost of running commercial vehicles, driven by soaring petrol prices, expensive spare parts, and rising household expenses.

Adewumi Adeleke, a protester, revealed that some commercial drivers were spending up to ₦40,000 on petrol daily, barely making ₦5,000 to ₦3,000 after covering other operational costs. He argued that the financial strain was making the business unsustainable. "Spending ₦40,000 on fuel and ending with only ₦5,000 or ₦3,000? Spare parts and everything are too costly. We're uncomfortable with this situation," Adeleke explained.

The drivers demanded urgent intervention from both the Federal and Osun State Governments to expedite the establishment of CNG refuelling stations in Osogbo. Many operators were willing to convert their petrol-operated vehicles to CNG but needed financial aid to make the switch affordable.

Prince Olakunle Ojo added that the high petrol prices made it difficult for drivers to make a decent income even after paying for fuel and daily expenses. A driver could spend ₦15,000 on petrol and only earn ₦13,000 at day's end, leaving little for personal needs or vehicle maintenance. "After spending ₦15,000 on petrol in the morning, you might make only ₦13,000 at day's end. So, the fuel money is gone, and you're left with nothing for food or vehicle upkeep," Ojo noted.

The operators also called for a revision of transport fares to reflect the current costs of petrol, vehicle maintenance, spare parts, and other expenses associated with commercial transportation. Another driver, Ariyo Idowu, stressed the need for better transport infrastructure, including designated bus stops across Osogbo, to facilitate organized operations and improve passenger movement.

The drivers threatened to go on a week-long strike if their concerns were not addressed. They appealed to the government and transport unions to engage in dialogue to resolve the issues. This protest underscores the ongoing challenges faced by transport operators due to fuel price hikes and the broader impact on the cost of living.