The Lagos State Truck and Cargo Operators Committee has strongly condemned the repeated attacks on truck drivers in Lagos State by hoodlums, citing instances of unwarranted extortion and assault.

The committee raised concerns following a recent attack on a truck driver along the Mile 2 – Oshodi express road, resulting in the hospitalization of the driver.

Chairman of LASTCOC, Mr. Lukman Shittu, addressed the media, expressing dismay over the incident. Shittu recounted the events, stating, “Some toll-collecting thugs at Berger bus stop outwards Mile 2-Oshodi express road on Saturday morning flagged down a loaded containerized truck to extort the driver.”

“When the driver refused to stop, one of the thugs jumped onto the driver’s side and started dragging the steering with him, causing the truck to swerve and crash into parked vehicles.”

Shittu revealed that the driver, in an attempt to defend himself, was stabbed from behind and had to be rushed to the hospital for medical attention.

He highlighted a similar incident on December 5, 2023, at the same location, where hoodlums caused a truck to fall by forcefully taking control of the steering.

The Chairman expressed grave concerns about the negative impact of such activities on the transportation business in Lagos State, emphasizing the adverse effects on foreign investments in the sector.

Shittu described the hoodlums as destructive and lawless, causing damage to trucks, burglary of containers in transit, extortion, and physical assault on drivers, leading to accidents and traffic congestion.

“These hoodlums, not adding any value to our economy apart from destruction, have made the transport business environment in Lagos State hostile for truckers,” Shittu stated.

He pointed out that the situation posed a potential threat to the realization of economic objectives, including the African Continental Free Trade Agreement and Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s T.H.E.M.E. agenda plus policy in transportation.

Shittu also called on government authorities, relevant stakeholders, and those concerned about the economy’s well-being to take immediate action against the menace of hoodlums jeopardizing the trucking business, import and export activities, revenue generation, and trade facilitation in Lagos State.

When contacted by the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Benjamin Hundeyin could not be reached at this time of this report.