By Anthony Obiozor, Awka

On December, 28th 2023, Awka based writer and journalist, lfeanyi Ndukwe would meet a dare devil driver who works under the logistics company, Jenco Group.

Relating his ordeal via a Whatsapp call, Ndukwe said it all started at 14:00 GMT when he arrived the Park at Amawbia roundabout. As part of the norm of festive celebration, the fares had skyrocketed to additional 30% increment.

' the driver infuriation started when he appealed to make bank transfers instead of cash payment due to the artificial cash scarcity to which he refused.

Ifeanyi said the journey to his town, Umuahia started by 15:00 GMT with 8 passengers in the sienna bus marked, ABIA/UMA- 142 HR. The journey lasted for 3hours, 30minutes as the vehicle had failures like faulty booth and break pads

Continuing his story with deep reflections, the youthful journalist reported that the arrival at Umuahia Gate became a horror story.

His words: " l called a wheelbarrow pusher to help covey my bag and luggages to the desired Ohafia bus park. Surprisingly, he clasped his hands and started rough handling me,

" he began to threaten to kill me unless l pay him #1,000 naira for my luggage.ln the midst of the chaos, l lost my Smart phone to pick-pockets. It took the intervention of some good spirited passers-by before he let me go"

Ndukwe said he had to refocus his attention to locating his phone but discovered it had been switched off by the scavengers.

However, efforts were made to reach the management of Jenco Group, Anambra branch to hear their own side of the story proved abortive as the office line was never picked.

Over the past months journalists and media practitioners have become targets for attacks. The victim called on the intelligence of the Nigerian police and human rights to give him justice and make the environment safe for members of 4th estate.