Angry youths block Benin-Lagos road over hardship
Angry youths in Edo State,yesterday blocked the busy Benin-Lagos highway near the Ugbowo campus of the University of Benin (UNIBEN). They were protesting harsh economy and alleged unfulfilled political promises.
- From Osagie Otabor, Benin
Angry youths in Edo State,yesterday blocked the busy Benin-Lagos highway near the Ugbowo campus of the University of Benin (UNIBEN).
They were protesting harsh economy and alleged unfulfilled political promises.
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Their action caused heavy vehicular traffic for over seven hours.
A driver returning from Lagos State and identified himself as Timothy said he was stuck for over six hours.
The presence of security personnel did not stop the protesters from barricading the road.
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All pleas for them to open the highway fell on deaf ears.
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Some of the protesters, who spoke, said the recent hike in fuel prices has made things difficult.
More youths joined in the protest to demand for better living conditions.
Mr. Jide Ojo said the protest reflected the growing frustration among young Nigerians.
“The hardship in the country is biting harder, and many young people feel political leaders are not connecting enough with their daily realities.”
Edo Police spokesperson, Eno Ikoedem, said the police ensured the highway was opened for motorists while allowing the protesters to exercise their constitutional rights.
She dismissed claims by motorists that the protest lasted over seven hours.
It was gathered that security has been beefed up in other parts of the city to prevent hoodlums from hijacking the protest.
