Hundreds of youths on Wednesday blocked the busy Benin–Lagos Expressway in protest against what they described as worsening economic hardship in the country.

The demonstrators, mostly youths and students from the University of Benin (UNIBEN), obstructed traffic on both sides of the highway using heavy logs, vehicles, and burning tyres, while also lighting bonfires along the road.

The protest caused severe gridlock, leaving motorists and commuters stranded. Many passengers within Benin were forced to abandon their vehicles and continue their journeys on foot, while some travelers, including commercial drivers and private car owners, turned back in search of alternative routes.

Protesters carried placards bearing messages such as “No to petrol hike,” “No to bad roads,” and “APC must go.” They said their actions were driven by concerns over rising fuel prices, unreliable power supply, poor road conditions, and the increasing cost of food.

They called on the government to urgently address issues such as inflation, unemployment, and the rising cost of living.

In a widely shared video, one protester said the demonstration was aimed at drawing attention to the hardships Nigerians are facing.

“There is hardship in this country, and the government is not doing enough. We are tired of empty promises. Our parents are struggling, students are going hungry, and this is the only way to make our voices heard,” he said.

Observers say the protest reflects growing frustration among young Nigerians, many of whom feel that political leaders are increasingly disconnected from the realities of everyday life.