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PERCEPTION OF THE ACTIVITIES OF TOUTS

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

The perception of touts, commonly known as agberos in Nigeria, is a significant issue in urban transportation and informal economies. Touts are often perceived as informal agents who operate within transportation hubs, influencing public transport activities and transactions (Okafor, 2019). Their presence and activities have sparked debates and attracted attention from both academic circles and policymakers due to their impact on commuter experiences and urban management (Adewale & Adeniran, 2020).

The term "tout" generally refers to individuals who engage in various informal activities, often characterized by soliciting customers, collecting dues, and sometimes engaging in aggressive behaviors to secure passengers for commercial vehicles (Ikegbunam et al., 2021). These activities typically occur in bustling urban centers, where transportation systems are heavily utilized but often fragmented or inadequately regulated (Adesola, 2018).

In Nigerian cities like Lagos and Abuja, touts are a visible presence at bus terminals, motor parks, and major intersections, where they play roles ranging from fare collection facilitation to enforcers of informal rules governing transport operations (Adeola & Oluseyi, 2020). Their perception varies widely among different segments of society, with commuters, transport operators, and regulatory authorities holding diverse views on their contribution to the urban transport ecosystem (Ibe & Akinwale, 2019).

From a historical perspective, touts have evolved alongside urbanization and the expansion of informal economies in Nigerian cities (Okorie & Onwudiwe, 2022). Initially emerging as informal laborers assisting commuters with navigating complex transport systems, their roles have expanded to include aspects of fee collection and mediation in transport disputes (Adebayo, 2020).

The activities of touts are often seen as both a response to gaps in formal transport systems and a challenge to regulatory frameworks designed to maintain order and safety (Onwudiwe & Ezeaku, 2021). For instance, while some argue that touts provide essential services by facilitating access to transportation for commuters who may otherwise struggle to navigate chaotic terminals (Ogbonna & Okeke, 2019), others highlight their role in perpetuating disorder and extorting commuters and transport operators alike (Okeke & Anyaegbunam, 2020).

In recent years, efforts have been made to regulate the activities of touts through various legislative and administrative measures (Okafor & Adekunle, 2021). These initiatives aim to streamline urban transport operations while addressing concerns related to safety, fairness, and public order (Adeniji & Ogunleye, 2018). However, the effectiveness of such interventions remains a subject of debate, with challenges persisting due to the complex social and economic dynamics in which touts operate (Okechukwu & Nwaogu, 2020).

The perception of touts also intersects with broader issues of urban governance, informal sector regulation, and public safety (Adetayo & Olukoya, 2021). Scholars argue that understanding how touts are perceived by different stakeholders is crucial for developing policies that balance the need for informal economic activities with urban planning goals (Adewale, 2020).

In conclusion, the perception of touts in Nigerian urban centers is multifaceted, influenced by historical, social, economic, and regulatory factors (Oluwasegun, 2021). As cities continue to grow and transportation demands increase, addressing the challenges posed by

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