The Joint Drivers Welfare Association of Nigeria (JDWAN) has made several demands, and the Lagos State Government says it is investigating them in an effort to find long-term solutions to the problems posed.
Following the drivers’ planned seven-day job boycott, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Mr. Sola Giwa, stated in a statement on Monday that it was imperative to fulfil their requests.
Giwa claimed that the alleged harassment and extortion by management staff at auto parks and garages around the state was the cause of the employment boycott.
In response to JDWAN’s declaration that it will begin a strike on October 31, he said that the state administration had invited JDWAN’s leadership to a meeting on Friday, October 28 through the Ministry of Transportation.
He claims that the invitation was extended despite the government’s lack of membership with any of the state-known transport unions, including NURTW and RTEAN.
“Most of the union members at the meeting were from the Badagry axis and it was resolved that the meeting be adjourned till Wednesday.
“This is to have a larger house, which will include representatives of other recognised unions, with a view to resolving the matter amicably,” Giwa said.
He said that the public would be informed of the results of the second meeting, which is planned to take place on Wednesday.
Giwa consequently asked JDWAN members to go about their everyday business without worrying about harassment or intimidation because security agencies had been instructed to uphold law and order.
“Those who are taking advantage of the situation to raise fares are warned to desist from doing so or face the consequences of their illegal actions,” he said.
