"Commercial Drivers Protest Closure of Lagos Garage: A Clash Over Livelihoods"

Commercial drivers affiliated with CMS Taxi and Bus Nigeria Limited, based in Marina, Lagos, staged a peaceful demonstration against the closure of their garage by the Lagos State Government. They appealed to Governor Babajide

 Sanwo-Olu to reopen the garage so they could resume their business operations. Alabi Olabamji Kamorudeen, the president of the union, explained during the protest that the government initially approached them to use the garage for an event, but afterward, it was locked without prior notice. Kamorudeen expressed concern that the government intended to renovate the garage and allocate space to other unions not affiliated with theirs, contrary to their initial understanding. He emphasized that the closure had deprived them of their livelihoods, leaving many members unemployed. The drivers urged Governor Sanwo-Olu to reconsider and prioritize their welfare, along with the needs of the commuters they serve. In response, the governor's Special Adviser on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa, alleged that the drivers were not transparent about the situation. Giwa clarified that the garage was closed because its operators failed to register with the government and were not in compliance with state regulations. He also highlighted that the union had not paid taxes to the state government for the past five years. However, Giwa assured that discussions were underway between the union's leaders and the government to resolve the dispute, promising a swift resolution.