Extortion Crisis: Lagos Keke Drivers Threaten 2027 Vote Boycott Over Proposed 60% NURTW Fee Hike
LAGOS — Tricycle (Keke and Marwa) operators across Lagos State are threatening a massive political backlash against the ruling party ahead of the 2027 elections, following a controversial proposal by the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) to spike daily charges by over 60%.
The proposed levy increase, set to take effect on September 7, 2026, is being spearheaded by the state’s NURTW Chairman, Alhaji Mustapha Adekunle (popularly known as “Sego”). The sudden hike has triggered widespread outrage among transport workers who accuse the union leadership of squeezing the poor masses to fund political campaigns.
Frustration on the Streets
The timing of the levy increase comes during a period of intense economic hardship. Operators say they are already pushed to the brink by soaring fuel prices, expensive spare parts, and high daily maintenance costs.
“The continuous charges and NURTW extortion are making our businesses almost impossible to sustain,” said an operator during a grassroots meeting in Lagos today. Drivers described an oppressive system where they are forced to make multiple payments at up to five different junctions before even reaching a single formal bus stop.
Political Implications for 2027
The building frustration is fast turning into a major political headache for both state and federal leadership. Angry operators are openly warning that they will withhold their votes from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2027 if the extortion is not immediately halted.
Many drivers feel betrayed, questioning whether the Presidency or Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu are aware of how the union’s actions are damaging their political standing. Transport stakeholders warn that if Sego and the NURTW leadership are not reined in by the government, the mounting anger could quickly boil over into a serious political crisis for the administration.
