By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Calabar, Cross River – February 26, 2026 – Chaos erupted in Calabar yesterday as commercial drivers blocked major roads to protest multiple taxation, harassment, and extortion. The protest, organized by minibus operators, affected key routes, including areas around the University of Calabar. Drivers demanded urgent government intervention to stop illegal fines and overcharges.
Drivers Complain of Daily Ticket Fees and Harassment
Mr. Etim Asuquo, a minibus driver, explained, “We buy tickets every day, even on Saturdays and public holidays, yet we cannot work freely. If you stop briefly to pick a passenger, they accuse you of wrong parking and fine you between N60,000 and N100,000.”
He added, “It is sad that in Cross River we pay N700 daily for tickets, including weekends and public holidays, one of the highest in the country. Neighboring states do not charge this much.”
Asuquo noted the presence of multiple enforcement agencies, including TRAMRA, Vehicle Inspection Officers (VIO), ticket enforcement officers, and police. “On a short route, you can see four groups struggling to collect money from drivers,” he said.
Government Suspends Enforcement, Promises Dialogue
Responding to the protests, Special Adviser to the Governor on General Duties, Ekpenyong Akiba, clarified that some enforcement groups cited by drivers are not officially recognized by the state government.
Akiba announced a temporary suspension of all forms of taxation and enforcement linked to the complaints. He added, “Five drivers from each protest point will meet with authorities for dialogue. His Excellency is committed to ensuring Cross River people are not exploited.”
Lawmakers Condemn Multiple Taxation
Mr. Stanley Nsemo, Member representing Calabar Municipality in the State House of Assembly, condemned multiple taxation. “These drivers are essential to the state’s economy. Extortion affects transport fares and ultimately burdens ordinary citizens,” he said.
Security agencies were deployed to strategic locations to maintain law and order as protests continued.
Protests Cause Major Traffic Disruptions
The protest significantly affected traffic, especially around the University of Calabar. Drivers barricaded roads, causing severe gridlock. They demanded government action to end harassment, illegal fines, and multiple taxation.
