Passengers using the Lagos State Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system experienced significant disruptions on Sunday as drivers of Primero Transport Services Limited, one of the companies operating the service, went on strike. The strike, reportedly due to the alleged non-payment of their December salary, led to long queues of stranded passengers at various BRT terminals.
At the Ikorodu BRT terminal, where the strike was particularly noticeable, passengers waited for buses that did not arrive, resulting in frustration and inconvenience. Some passengers resorted to alternative means of transportation, such as yellow buses, which reportedly took advantage of the situation by increasing fares.
A passenger named Sam expressed his frustration, stating that he had been waiting for almost two hours without any communication or updates on the situation. He also mentioned hearing about increased fares by alternative transportation providers.
A Primero TSL staff member, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, confirmed the strike, stating that it began on Saturday because the drivers had not received their December salaries. The employee mentioned that the strike might be resolved soon, possibly by the following day.
Efforts to reach Primero’s Managing Director, Mr. Fola Tinubu, were unsuccessful, as calls and messages went unanswered. Similar attempts to contact the Managing Director of Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA), Mrs. Abimbola Akinajo, were also unsuccessful.
The situation underscores the challenges that can arise when essential services, such as public transportation, face disruptions due to labor-related issues. Passengers are left inconvenienced, and efforts are needed to resolve the matter promptly for the benefit of both the workers and commuters.
