Angry Tank Drivers Protest Over Death of Colleague in Kogi State

The Abuja-Lokoja highway has been obstructed by angry tanker drivers protesting over the reported death of a colleague who ran into a ditch while dodging a military checkpoint close to Murtala Mohammed bridge, Jamata.

The roadblock was reported to have commenced on Monday night.

Informants have claimed that the tanker driver refused to stop when he was signaled at the military checkpoint.

The victim was reported to have stopped his vehicle on observing that he was being pursued and tried to run into the bush, but fell into a ditch and was gravely wounded.

He was transported quickly to the hospital to receive medical attention but later died.

His death was said to have vexed the other drivers who obstructed the road.

SP William Aya, Police Public Relation Officer, Kogi State Police command has said he could not affirm if the victim died.

He said, “It is correct that the victim fell into a ditch and was taken to the hospital for medical attention but I don’t know if he died. I will get back to you after investigating the situation.”

In the meantime, Alhaji Yahaya Bello, the governor of Kogi State ordered the reopening of the highway that has been obstructed since Monday night.

The governor gave the order through Mr Omodara Jerry, his Special Assistant on Security Matters.

Bello showed sadness over the matter but condemned the act of the drivers stating there were better ways to communicate their outrage.

He stated that the Abuja- Lokoja-Lagos highway is an important road and it’s continuous obstruction is hamful to the lives and businesses of the people.

The governor also advised the security agencies to be careful in controlling issues.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC)and other security personnel are still struggling to appease the tanker drivers to reopen the road.