Bus drivers in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers state revolted against what they called obnoxious and corrupt activities of the Nigeria Police Force, (NPF), in the state, on Wednesday, November 9, 2011.
One of the drivers who spoke to The Newswriter, on the ground of anonymity alleged that the altercation between the police and the bus drivers at Mile 3, axis led to the death of a driver and a conductor,
Another driver who spoke under cover, said their union is a ceremonial body as they do not know their responsibilities.
He stated further that tickets meant for N50, are being sold at the rate of N200, and that even when they are not on duty due to important engagements they are under compulsion to pay for the day(s) of their absence, as this has created an avenue for unnecessary exploitation and intimidation by the police.
He posited that when ever cases of unlawful arrest are reported to the union, it is treated with levity, as they work hand-in-glove with the police.
In mile 3, he said, the sum of N200, is being paid to police officers on morning duty, afternoon, and park police respectively, as they all represent the Nkpolu Police Station. On the same note, the sum of N200 is being paid to union councils and community separately.
He further revealed that drivers who refused to comply would be brutalized and thrown into detention.
Finally, he called on the attention of the Rivers State Government to map out sign posts on some bus stops like Education, Park, Ojims, Rumuokoro, UST and others, to avoid police embarrassment and intimidation.
He further appealed to the state government to prevail on the union to conduct election, as the National Union of Road Transport Workers has not conducted election for 15 years now.
However, in a telephone chat, the Police Public Relations Officer, Ben Ugwuegbunam said it was completely false that two persons died during the protest.
He said the actual reason for the drivers’ protest was because some of them who refused the order that they should use the Mile 3 Motor Park, were arrested and charged to court for preferring to park on the road, causing traffic jam.
The PPRO said that was the main reason for the protest, reiterating that there were no casualties.
All attempts to reach the chairman of the union proved abortive. ####
George Banimi
