The Female Drivers Association of Nigeria (FEDAN) has decried recent incident of assault and harassment perpetrated against one of its members near the Oriental Hotel, along the Lekki-Epe Expressway, Lagos.
The attack, which occurred on Monday, FEDAN added was a stark reminder of the ordeal many female commercial drivers face on a daily basis.
Its President, Eunice Odeghe, in a statement issued Friday, therefore, demanded immediate investigation into incidents of assault and harassment of female commercial drivers in Nigeria.
The association also urged government to as a matter of urgency, provide a safe and supportive environment for women drivers, collaboration with transport operators to prevent future incidents
Odeghe noted: “We are committed to ensuring the safety and dignity of our female members who have chosing careers in the transportation industry.
“Unfortunately, some men have taken it upon themselves to subject these women to verbal and physical abuse, simply because they dare to operate behind the wheel. This is unacceptable and we will not stand idly by while our members are subjected to such ignominy.”
“The incident that occurred in Lagos is a clear example of the injustice faced by our members.
“A female driver was brutally beaten and harassed by a group of men who seem to think that they have the right to exercise their “muscle” over women on the wheel.
“This is a vicious cycle that must be broken, and we are calling on the relevant authorities and agencies to take immediate action to address this issue.
“We urge the public, particularly the licensed operators in parks and on the road, to join us in condemning this evil act. We want our women to be able to perform their duties without fear of harassment and assault. We want them to be able to enjoy their careers in the transportation industry without being subjected to such indignities.”
“As FEDAN, we will continue to stand by our members and fight for their rights. We will not be silenced by the tyranny of those who think they are above the law.
“We will continue to raise our voices until justice is served and our female drivers are able to operate in a safe and respectful environment,” she said.
