As reported by The Punch, the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Victor Olaiya, has appealed to commercial transport operators in the state to maintain peace as the government works to address the country’s economic challenges.

This appeal followed a protest last Thursday by drivers of commercial taxi cabs, tricycle operators, and motorcycle riders in Ilorin, who demonstrated against the recent fuel price hike.

During a meeting on Friday at the command headquarters in Ilorin, attended by representatives of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), Motorcycle Operators Union of Nigeria, and Tricycle Owners Association of Nigeria, Olaiya urged the groups to ensure calm. The meeting also featured the presence of AbdulRaham AbdulRazaq, Senior Special Assistant on Security to the state governor, and Aliyu Muyideen.

According to a statement issued on Sunday by DSP Ejire-Adeyemi Toun, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Kwara Police Command, all parties were advised to prioritize peace in the state.

“The meeting admonished the transport unions to uphold peace always, emphasising that Kwara State is known for its harmonious, peace-loving nature.

“He reassured the unions that the Federal Government is actively addressing the current economic situation to improve the lives of all Nigerians.

“The Commissioner of Police also encouraged the transport unions to channel any concerns, particularly regarding security, through their chairmen.

“He emphasised the importance of dialogue and cooperation, assuring them that His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, stands in full support of their well-being and is ready to assist them in all matters.

“The meeting ended with a renewed commitment to maintaining peace and ensuring the continued safety and prosperity of all residents in Kwara State,” the police statement said.