High Costs and Cracks in the Asphalt: Agbor Transporters Speak Out
AGBOR – Operators at the Abraka and Asaba motor parks in Agbor have raised concerns over the deteriorating state of road infrastructure and the soaring cost of vehicle maintenance, which they say are the primary drivers behind high transport fares. Speaking during a routine visit to the Abraka park, the park chairman, Comr. Emeka, affirmed that while operations under the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) are running smoothly, the physical state of the roads remains a major hurdle. He specifically decried the poor condition of the Agbor-Abraka road, appealing to the government for urgent intervention to improve the network. Addressing public outcry regarding high transport costs, Comr. Emeka clarified that fuel prices are not the sole factor. “Most of the reason why transportation is at that rate is based on vehicle parts,” he explained. “It is about the parts of vehicles and nothing much.” Echoing this sentiment, another driver, Comr. Alex, noted that the business-heavy nature of commercial transportation dictates sitting arrangements and pricing. He emphasised that income must commensurate with the high cost of maintenance for the business to remain viable. On the issue of safety, Comr. Emeka admitted to growing concerns over road security, urging the government to heighten protection for travellers. Comr. Alex added that insecurity in the country is a collective burden, stating, “Insecurity in Nigeria concerns everyone; it is not an individual concern.” However, the perspective shifted at the Asaba park. A driver identified as Mr. Michael expressed a feeling of abandonment by the authorities. While also affiliated with the NURTW, Michael suggested that the government and its transport agencies have little involvement in their daily struggles. “I don’t think the government has anything to do with the park. We are trying to run it on our own... trying to please our customers and make sure our vehicles are in order,” Michael said. He noted, however, that the Asaba–Onicha-Ugbo route he plies has remained relatively free of major security threats. As the costs of spare parts continue to climb and road surfaces crumble, transporters in Agbor remain caught between maintaining their livelihoods and providing affordable service to the public.
| 2026-01-15 14:15:06