Demonstrating commercial drivers operating along Upper Sakponba Road in Benin yesterday blocked sections of the road in protest against the increasing fuel prices.

The protesters told their colleagues to immediately increase transport fares, warning that passengers who boarded buses at old rates would be forced to pay additional charges or be dropped off midway.

The protests caused significant disruption, leaving many commuters stranded along Upper Sakponba Road. Several passengers were seen walking long distances to navigate through two roadblocks mounted by the drivers on Aifuwa Street and Pioneer Junction.

One of the protesting drivers, who identified himself as John, explained that the demonstration was necessary for their survival, noting that the price of fuel, which previously sold for slightly above N800, had risen sharply to about N1,350 per litre.

He said: “We were buying fuel for N870 before the increment and we carry passengers for N500, but now we buy fuel for 1350 and still carry passengers for the same amount, how do you expect us to survive?