An inDrive driver has reportedly shared his frustration after spending ₦85,000 to fill his car’s tank, only to make about ₦50,000 after working for an entire day.
The driver’s account has sparked reactions online, with many Nigerians expressing concern about the rising cost of transportation and the financial pressures facing ride-hailing drivers.
According to the driver, the difficult day became even worse after his vehicle reportedly developed a fault while he was working.
He alleged that more than eight agberos, or local transport workers, subsequently surrounded him while armed with guns and knives.
The driver claimed the men threatened his life and demanded ₦200,000 from him.
Faced with the alleged threats, he said he eventually paid ₦150,000 before he was allowed to leave.
The incident reportedly left him with little to show for a full day of driving, after already spending ₦85,000 on fuel and earning approximately ₦50,000 from his trips.
His experience has renewed conversations about the challenges faced by commercial and ride-hailing drivers, who have to contend with fuel costs, vehicle maintenance, platform-related expenses and other charges while trying to make a living.
The alleged encounter with the agberos has also generated concern among social media users, particularly over claims that the group was armed and allegedly demanded money from the stranded driver.
However, the specific location of the incident and the identities of those allegedly involved were not established in the account circulating online. The claims about the alleged threats and payment have also not been independently verified.
For many drivers, vehicle breakdowns can already create significant financial and safety concerns, especially when they occur far from familiar areas or at vulnerable times.
The driver’s account has therefore drawn attention to the difficult economics of ride-hailing, where high operating costs can significantly reduce the amount drivers take home after a day’s work.
What began as a full day of trying to earn an income reportedly ended with the driver spending far more than he made, after factoring in fuel costs and the alleged ₦150,000 payment.
The account has since prompted calls for greater protection for commercial drivers and stronger action against alleged extortion and intimidation on the roads.
