The Lagos State Government on Monday said it was looking into the demands of the Joint Drivers Welfare Association of Nigeria (JDWAN) and would be meeting with the Association on November 2.
It said the meeting will be with a view to finding permanent solutions to the issues raised by the Association.
The state said the move became necessary after commercial bus drivers in the state commenced a seven-day job boycott over alleged “harassment and extortion by motor parks and garages management”.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa, on Monday.
The statement read in part, “Sequel to the announcement by JDWAN to embark on a seven-day strike starting from 31st October 2022, the Ministry of Transportation invited its leadership to a meeting on Friday 28th October 2022, despite its non-affiliation to any of the transport unions known by the State Government, i.e NURTW and RTEAN.
“Most of the union members at the meeting were from the Badagry axis and it was resolved that the meeting be adjourned till Wednesday, 2nd November 2022 to have a larger house (the Unions inclusive) and resolve the matter amicably.
“The outcome of the 2nd November 2022 Meeting will be made known to the public.
“The State Government urges drivers to continue their daily routine without fear of molestation and intimidation as security agencies have been directed to maintain law and order.
“Those who are taking advantage of the situation to raise fares are warned to desist from doing so or face the consequences of their illegal actions.”
Commuters left stranded
The strike action by the drivers left many commuters stranded in Lagos as they couldn’t get the popular danfo buses to board to their various places of work.
Several bus stops across the state could be seen crowded by passengers hoping to get a bus. Some of the passengers could be seen begging private vehicle owners to give them a lift while some opted to catch a ride through transport apps like Uber, Inride and Bolt.
