Ibafo, Ogun State, was thrown into chaos yesterday, Monday, January 13, 2025, as a clash erupted between commercial motorcyclists, popularly known as Okada riders, and tax collectors, also known as tickets. The conflict reportedly stemmed from a hike in the daily levy imposed on riders, which increased from N500 to N600.
The protest, led primarily by the Hausa faction of the Okada riders, paralyzed transportation in the area, leaving commuters stranded. Many riders refused to convey passengers, and others feared potential attacks amid the tension.
An eyewitness, Mr. Abiodun Oguntoyinbo, described the incident to our correspondent, highlighting the frustrations of the riders over the levy increase, particularly as the Federal Government’s proposed reduction in fuel prices has not yet materialized.
“The Hausa group of Okada riders were angry because they believe the fuel price hike has already put them in a difficult position, and now the tax collectors want to increase their levy,” Oguntoyinbo said.
The confrontation reportedly escalated into a physical altercation between the riders and the tax collectors. In the ensuing chaos, the Yoruba faction of the Okada riders also refrained from carrying passengers, citing fears of attacks from their Hausa colleagues.
“As of this morning, when I wanted to leave my house in Ibafo for Berger, I couldn’t find any Okada rider to take me to the bus stop,” Oguntoyinbo narrated. “I had no choice but to trek to Ibafo, where I eventually boarded a bus.”
The standoff caused significant disruption to the daily activities of residents, with many commuters resorting to trekking long distances or waiting endlessly for alternative transportation.
Efforts to reach the leadership of the Okada riders and the tax collection unit for comments were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report. However, residents have called on the authorities to intervene and resolve the issue to prevent further unrest.
The situation in Ibafo remains tense, and concerned citizens have urged both parties to engage in dialogue to address the grievances amicably.
