By: Manoah Kikekon
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| The team lead and several motorcycles intercepted |
Badagry, Lagos – Residents and commercial motorcycle riders in Badagry Local Government are crying out over relentless extortion, harassment, and violent intimidation by men claiming to be officials of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW). The latest incident, which occurred on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, has sparked outrage, with many warning that the community’s patience is wearing thin.
A team led by a man identified as Gbadebo stormed several bike parks along Mowo-Ado-Odo Road, Pheragu, Iyana-Logbo (Igborosun), and Ikoga, forcefully collecting ₦5,000 from over 50 motorcycle riders many of whom were private users, not commercial operators.
Victims reported being held for hours, with some sustaining injuries in the process. One rider, visibly shaken, told News PPeddlers "I use my bike to go to the farm, not for commercial purposes. Yet, they seized it and demanded ₦5,000. No receipt, no ID card just pure extortion."
Another victim, who pleaded anonymity, revealed "I had to pay before they released my bike. They don’t care if you’re struggling to survive. If you resist, they beat you."
Despite repeated complaints, residents say the local government has failed to intervene. When contacted, Alhaji Abdulganiu Muyibi, Special Adviser to the Badagry LG Chairman Onilude on Revenue and NURTW Chairman for Ikoga, shockingly insisted that the ₦5,000 fee was justified, blaming victims for "not pleading properly" with the officials.
A frustrated rider lamented "This happens mostly on market day. They come, harass us, take our money, and leave. We’ve been peaceful, but how long can we endure this?"
With Mowo-Ikoga terrible road conditions leaving motorcycles as the only viable transport option, the NURTW’s unchecked brutality is pushing residents to the brink. Many fear that if the government continues to ignore their plight, a violent revolt could erupt.
"We don’t want trouble, but people are getting angry. If nothing is done soon, the youth may take matters into their own hands," a community leader warned.
Residents are now calling on the Lagos State Government, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, and security agencies to urgently investigate these allegations and disband illegal NURTW operatives terrorizing the community.