By Our Correspondent
Commuters across the South East geopolitical zone have expressed frustration over severe traffic gridlocks caused by multiple checkpoints and roadblocks set up by security agencies and tax officials. Many blame these bottlenecks and associated extortion for the spike in transportation costs during the holiday season.
In interviews with journalists, several commuters and drivers highlighted the challenges posed by the numerous checkpoints.
The Burden of Checkpoints
Mr. David Uzonna, a commuter based in Awka, lamented the presence of 19 roadblocks on the 100-kilometer journey between Awka and Enugu.
“The extortion at these checkpoints and the resulting delays are major factors driving up transport fares. An 18-seater bus that used to cost ₦3,000 now costs ₦4,000 to ₦4,500, while a Sienna vehicle that used to cost ₦5,000 now costs ₦7,000,” Uzonna said.
While noting improvements in road conditions, Uzonna pointed out that the gridlocks caused by checkpoints undermine the benefits. He called on South East governors to reduce the number of checkpoints to ease movement and boost economic activities.
Mrs. Ifeoma Agueze, a Europe-based Nigerian who returned home for Christmas, shared her ordeal. She spent nearly 10 hours traveling by road from Abuja to Enugu, a journey that should have taken six hours.
“There were numerous checkpoints, especially as we approached the South East. We encountered soldiers, police, Road Safety officials, VIOs, and agriculture produce teams, all stopping vehicles for checks and demanding bribes,” Agueze said.
Economic Impact on Drivers
Drivers have also lamented the high costs associated with checkpoints. Mr. Dominic Nwuda, a commercial driver plying the Enugu-Port Harcourt route, said he spends between ₦3,000 and ₦5,000 on bribes to security personnel.
“If you refuse to pay, they can seize your vehicle documents or delay you for hours,” Nwuda said.
Ahmed, a truck driver transporting foodstuffs from Adamawa to the South East, highlighted the extortion by agricultural produce inspection teams. “We are charged ₦10,000 at every stop, especially between Obollo Afor in Enugu and Rivers State,” he said.
Rising Transportation Costs
The ripple effect of these challenges is evident in the soaring transport fares, which many passengers describe as unaffordable.
Mrs. Mercy Okoro, traveling with her four children to Umuahia, said she had to cancel her trip due to high fares.
Drivers in the South East report that fares have risen sharply, with some routes experiencing up to a 50% increase. For instance, a trip from Abakaliki to Afikpo now costs ₦2,500, while city transport fares in Enugu have also surged.
Mixed Reactions from Transport Operators
Some transport operators justified the fare hikes, citing increased passenger demand during the festive season.
“Passengers are rushing. If one person can’t pay, another will. It’s our time to make money for Christmas,” said Mr. Ikechukwu Eze, a bus driver.
Tricycle operator Mr. Innocent Uzor echoed this sentiment, describing the festive season as an opportunity to earn extra income.
READ ALSO:
Ministry of Steel Development Leads Charge to Revive Nigeria’s Steel Industry – Minister
WEP Launches Farm Beta Radio Programme to Support Farmers with Early Warning Climate Information
FG Launches Transformative Mining Policies to Boost Local Content, Economic Growth
However, some commuters, like Mrs. Veronica Ugwueze, criticized the fare hikes as exploitative. “This is pure wickedness. Drivers are exploiting people because it’s Christmas,” she said.
Calls for Intervention
Commuters and transport operators have called on state governments and relevant agencies to address the issues of multiple checkpoints and extortion. They urged authorities to ensure a smoother flow of traffic and affordable transportation, especially during the festive period.
As the Yuletide season unfolds, the challenges on South East roads continue to dampen the holiday spirit for many travelers.
