Tipper Drivers Stage Protest, Block Niger Bridge Access in Anambra Over Alleged Extortion

In a display of discontent, tipper drivers in Onitsha, the bustling commercial hub of Anambra, took to the streets on Tuesday, causing a significant disruption by blocking the expressway leading to and from the Niger Bridge. The protest stemmed from their grievances against alleged extortion by state government agents.

Despite attempts by military personnel stationed at the scene to dismantle the roadblock, their efforts proved futile, with the tipper drivers showing no inclination to yield.

Onodugo Onochie, a prominent figure in the tipper drivers’ association, voiced their concerns to journalists, highlighting the extortion they claim to face in Anambra, particularly due to the deteriorating condition of the roads where they load sand.

“Onitsha’s dilapidated roads damaged our vehicles, leading us to opt for loading sand at Asaba, Delta State,” Onochie explained. He recounted an incident where drivers who loaded at Asaba were charged N2,700 each, only to face additional demands upon reaching Onitsha, near Uga junction and adjacent to a military checkpoint.

“Some boys stopped us and demanded payment before allowing us to proceed. They claimed to have distributed documented information in December and January, which we were unaware of,” Onochie continued. “We are willing to pay, but we want clarity on the amount – whether it’s a daily or weekly fee. We cannot afford arbitrary charges each time a tipper passes, such as the N3,000 they insisted upon.”