Lagos without Danfo buses? Unthinkable or overdue? The yellow minibuses, famous for their reckless drivers, loud conductors, and sardine-packed seating, are as much a part of Lagos as its ever-busy markets and traffic gridlocks. But with ongoing discussions about modernising the city’s transportation system, the debate over whether the buses should be phased out is heating up. Are they an irreplaceable part of Lagosian culture, or do they need to go for the city to progress? We hit the streets to hear what commuters have to say.
1. James Adewale, Banker
“Danfo buses are a necessary evil.”
James, who works on Lagos Island, acknowledges that while the drivers can be reckless, the buses remain the most available and affordable means of transport. “BRTs are great, but they’re not enough. If you remove the bus, how will millions of people get to work?”
2. Chioma Okafor, Businesswoman on Danfo
“They should go! Lagos deserves better.”
Chioma is fed up with the buses. She believes they are dirty, uncomfortable, and too dangerous. “I’ve had enough of their rudeness and crazy driving. We need more modern transport, like trains and proper buses.”
3. Abdul Malik, Student Danfo
“I can’t imagine Lagos without the bus.”
For Abdul, a university student, the buses are part of his daily life. “I can’t afford Bolt or Uber. BRTs don’t reach everywhere. The bus is my only option.” He agrees they need regulation but insists they should not be removed completely.
4. Mama Titi, Market Trader
“Danfo drivers are stubborn, but they help us move fast.”
As a market trader, Mama Titi relies quickly. “Government buses move too slowly, and I can’t waste time waiting. The bus is rough, but at least I can rush to the market and return home quickly.”
5. Obinna Nwosu, Engineer
“It’s time for Danfo to go.”
Obinna believes the buses make Lagos chaotic. “They cause unnecessary traffic, disobey laws, and put lives at risk. We need a structured transport system, not these lawless buses.”
6. Aisha Bello, Civil Servant on Danfo
“Government should fix the roads before removing the bus.”
Aisha supports modern transport but says bad roads are the real problem. “Danfo or no Danfo, if our roads remain terrible, no transport system will function properly.”
7. Olumide Shola, Commercial Driver
“If you remove Danfo, where do we go?”
As a driver, Olumide fears for his livelihood. “This is how I feed my family. Government should train and support us, not just chase us away.”
8. Kemi Adebayo, Nurse
“Danfo buses have saved my life many times.”
Kemi, a nurse, depends on the buses to get to work in emergencies. “They are always available, no matter the time. If they go, what’s the alternative for people like me?”
9. Samuel Ojo, IT Specialist on Danfo
“They need strict regulation, not removal.”
Samuel believes the buses can be reformed. “Standardise them, ensure drivers are properly trained, and enforce road laws. That’s better than scrapping them.”
10. Blessing Ikenna, Hairstylist
“I’m tired of their wahala, but what can we do?”
Blessing has had many unpleasant experiences with the buses but still uses them. “They insult us, they overload, but we keep entering because we have no choice.”
11. Ibrahim Salisu, Security Guard
“Let’s have a mix of both.”
Ibrahim suggests keeping some the buses while introducing better alternatives. “BRTs are good, but we also need Danfo for places they don’t reach.”
12. Funmi Aluko, Entrepreneur
“If Danfo goes, I’m leaving Lagos.”
Funmi loves the unpredictability of Danfo rides. “It’s an adventure. The shouting, the drama, the energy—it’s pure Lagos! Without Danfo, Lagos won’t be the same.”
The Verdict: Mixed Feelings on Danfo’s Future
From our street interviews, it’s clear that Lagosians have mixed opinions. While some are eager to see the buses disappear, others believe they are too essential to remove. The consensus? If the buses are to stay, they need serious regulation. Cleaner, safer, and more organised public transport is the dream for many, but the reality is that the buses remain the go-to option for millions.
What do you think? Should the buses go, or should they stay? Join the conversation!
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