Commercial dispatch riders operating in the Federal Capital Territory (FCTq) on Thursday, staged a protest over what they described as multiple taxation and extortion affecting their operations.

The riders, who gathered in large numbers in Abuja, accused authorities of subjecting them to double taxation and introducing additional levies that they say are crippling their businesses amid worsening economic hardship.

The Guardian gathered that protesters carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs, the protesters expressed frustration over what they termed “FCT paper” and “rumble taxation.” “Too much tax is not good,” one of the protesters declared. “We say no to the FCT paper. Say no to rumble taxation.”

They insisted that the mounting financial burden has become unbearable for operators who provide essential delivery services across the capital city.

One of the riders, Simon Adebe, said the various charges and levies imposed on them are significantly affecting their daily earnings and threatening their livelihoods.

He called on the government to engage their representatives in dialogue to address their grievances and establish a fair and transparent framework that would support, rather than stifle, their businesses.

The protesters maintained that while they are not opposed to paying legitimate government fees, the imposition of duplicate or unclear charges must be halted.

They urged the FCT Minister to review the current taxation structure and harmonise all levies to prevent what they described as exploitation.

Speaking during the protest, the Area Mother of riders across Nigeria, Bolanle Aminata, said the demonstration was aimed at drawing the attention of the appropriate authorities.

“Today, Abuja and FCT riders have come out on a peaceful protest to draw the attention of the Honourable Minister and the Transport Secretary, who is here to address us,” she said.

“The reason for this protest is the issue of double charges. The riders do not mind paying the government or the area councils the approved fees. However, a consultant has emerged, claiming to have the mandate to also charge the riders.

“The riders are strongly against this because they are being asked to pay between ₦40,000 and ₦50,000 monthly. These are people earning minimum wage or slightly above. The burden is too heavy, and they cannot cope.

“That is why they have come out today — to appeal to the government. We are calling on the Federal Government to intervene and look into this matter. We understand discussions are ongoing, and we will provide updates as the situation unfolds.”

FCT Officials Respond, Promise Dialogue
Responding to the protesters, the Deputy Director and Head of Internal Security, Olubim Soulja, who addressed the crowd alongside Dr. Emmanuel, Director of Administration and Security Services Department, assured them that their concerns would be examined.

Soulja said: “Our discussion today is centered on resolving whatever concerns are agitating your minds, I am pleased to hear you acknowledge that the Honourable Minister is working. We can all see improvements, including better roads that make movement easier. But such developments require funding, and that funding must come through proper government processes.

“In government, there is a procedure. When a letter is received, consultations must be made. The matter does not end with the first recipient.”

Soulja assured the protesters that their leaders were already in discussions with relevant authorities and pledged that anyone found culpable in the alleged collections would be questioned.

He added, “If satisfactory answers are not provided, appropriate actions will be taken. You have exercised your democratic right, and we respect that. But please remain peaceful and allow dialogue to take place. Once there is disorder or obstruction, security agencies react, and the purpose of your protest may be defeated.”