Ella the Fashionistar, a Lagos-based TikToker, was allegedly harassed by a BRT official at the Ikorodu terminal for exposing the severe bus shortage and long queues.
She had been documenting her daily commute struggles on TikTok, highlighting the difficulties faced by commuters.
@ella_the_fashionistar Nigeriansssssss Please tag the right people to look into this case This woman had the guts to lay her hands on me. She’s not going Scott free!!! My sister followed me because we had a feeling this would happen but God is with me!! #contentcreator #viral #9to5 #5to9 #viral ♬ original sound – Darkskinned Ella | Creator
According to reports, the official confronted Ella, demanding she stop recording and even attempted to seize her phone.
The incident sparked widespread outrage on social media, with many calling out the BRT staff for their behaviour.
The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) has since denied allegations of harassment, citing privacy regulations within the transport system.
However, authorities have acknowledged the bus shortage issue and promised to increase fleet capacity.
@ella_the_fashionistar My voice was heard! I didn’t do it alone, we did it together! Thankyou Nigerians @keniyekoroye Thankyou for the GoFund for Uber, I really appreciate your thoughtfulness. I hope buses keep being provided like they said because if it doesn’t get provided, I’d make more videos and blur out people’s face. My intention was never to invade anyone’s privacy I only tried to create awareness. Thankyou once again #darkskinnedella ♬ original sound – Darkskinned Ella | Creator
In a surprising turn of events, extra BRT buses were deployed to the Ikorodu corridor, significantly reducing waiting times.
The supervisor involved in the incident was reportedly removed from duty.
The Lagos Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (LAMATA) has since announced that it will add 15 to 25 new BRT buses to address the shortage.
Ella has vowed to continue documenting the situation until more buses are provided, and she’s received support from the public and some officials, including the Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Gbenga Omotosho, who assured her that more buses would be provided.
Ella’s bravery has brought attention to the daily struggles of commuters in Lagos, and it’s hoped that her efforts will lead to improved public transportation in the city.
