Osogbo drivers stage protest, lament rising fuel costs

…as Drivers urge FG, State Gov’t to establish CNG station

Commercial minibus drivers, commonly known as Korope operators staged a peaceful protest in Osogbo, the capital of Osun State on Wednesday over soaring petrol prices and the rising cost of living.

Gathered at the Aiyetoro area, the drivers temporarily withdrew their vehicles from the roads to protest the current economic conditions, which they described as increasingly unprofitable.

Demonstrators highlighted the severe financial strain caused by high operational expenses. Drivers reported spending up to N40,000 daily on petrol, leaving them with negligible daily profits of just N3,000 to N5,000.

Escalating costs for vehicle maintenance, spare parts, and household items have compounded the financial burden on operators.

They also complained of the absence of functional Compressed Natural Gas refuelling stations across Osun State preventing drivers from utilizing cheaper alternative fuel sources.

The protesters therefore called on the Federal and State governments to intervene by establishing accessible CNG stations and supporting the affordable conversion of commercial vehicles.

They also urged transport authorities to designate and improve proper bus stops throughout Osogbo to streamline operations.

The drivers warned that they may resort to a prolonged strike if authorities fail to address their grievances and engage them in meaningful dialogue.