Lagos Agbero Crisis: Who Pays the Price for Roadside Collections?

Lagos Agbero Extortion: Motorists Harassed, Drivers Protest, and Residents Demand Action

What happens when refusing to give money on a Lagos road allegedly leads to assault, intimidation or damage to your vehicle?

That question has resurfaced following several reported incidents involving suspected street touts, popularly known as agberos, across Lagos State.

In August 2026, a Lagos woman alleged that a suspected tout assaulted her along the Ikate axis of the Lekki - Epe corridor after demanding money. She said the man struck her when she discovered she had no cash and also tore her clothes during the confrontation.  PUNCH 

Another video circulated on October 20th, 2026, showing suspected area boys confronting the driver of a Ferrari reportedly to be B-red Governor Adeleke son. The men allegedly demanded a settlement before allowing the vehicle to pass. Oyindamola

These incidents have renewed concerns about people being pressured to make roadside payments and the consequences of refusing. The allegations in each case should be distinguished from any findings established by an investigation or court.

The issue goes beyond viral videos.

On September 14, 2026, commercial bus drivers operating along the Iyana-Ipaja - Iyana-Iba route withdrew their services over alleged extortion. Drivers accused transport union members and enforcement agencies of imposing repeated financial demands and penalties.

The protest left commuters stranded, demonstrating how disputes over collections can disrupt public transportation and affect people trying to get to work and conduct business. Vanguard

When transport operators face additional costs, they may pass some of those expenses on to passengers. However, the extent to which these alleged collections directly cause fare increases needs to be established with evidence.

On October 2, 2026, The Lagos Deputy Governor and APC governorship candidate Obafemi Hamzat pledged to address unauthorised roadside collections and multiple taxation if elected governor.

He proposed establishing a State Economic Council to coordinate revenue policies with local governments and reduce uncoordinated collections from transport operators and businesses. Vanguard

The question now is how such promises will translate into action. Lagos residents need clear information about legitimate fees, effective complaint channels and investigations into credible reports of harassment and extortion.

The central issue is straightforward, nobody should have to fear assault, intimidation or property damage because they refuse an unauthorised demand for money.

Drivers, traders and commuters deserve a transparent system in which official charges are identifiable and those who engage in misconduct are held accountable. Legitimate transport workers should also be distinguished from individuals accused of extortion or impersonating officials.

As Lagos approaches the 2027 governorship election, the public deserves more than promises. Residents should be able to assess what candidates propose, what authorities implement and whether the measures produce verifiable results.

At OpinionMarket, we follow the political, economic and social issues shaping Nigeria.

The agbero controversy raises important questions about public safety, transport costs, government accountability and the future of Lagos. As new reports, official responses and policy proposals emerge, these developments are worth watching.

What do you think Lagos State should do to address alleged roadside extortion?

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