_By Violet Osatohanmwen Obamwonyi_
In his determination to address the socio-economic challenges faced by residents in the state, especially in the wake of the fuel subsidy removal, Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has authorized the provision of complimentary transportation services to passengers on all routes operated by the Edo City Transport Service (ECTS). The gesture which is aimed at cushioning the effect of the fuel subsidy removal by the federal government on residents is accessible to all commuters in the state at zero cost.
Speaking during the flag-off which held on September 11th 2023, Governor Godwin Obaseki, represented by the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Mr. Chris Nehikhare, reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to addressing the concerns of the populace and prioritizing their well-being.
The Governor emphasized that the services are completely free and available to everyone, stating that comprehensive plans have been put in place to ensure residents receive exceptional services from the state’s transport service provider.
According to Obaseki, “I would like to implore Edo people to use this service, on a regular basis, as it is for the benefit of us all. Edo State Government takes the welfare of Edo people very seriously and this free bus service is just one of the many ways we intend to cushion the cost of living for Edo people. I would like us to accurately serve the people efficiently. Of course I am aware it started since morning and people are already enjoying it.”
“To the glory of God and to Edo people, I hereby declare this free bus service for all Edo people open”, he added.
Earlier in her remark, the Managing Director of ECTS, Mrs. Hauwa Dupe Ohikhuare, expressed appreciation to Governor Obaseki, while expressing optimism towards the initiative. She emphasized its timeliness, given that parents and guardians are currently seeking funds to meet educational expenditures for their children who have just begun a new academic session. Ohikhuare noted that the initiative will significantly alleviate financial strains and offset the effects of the fuel subsidy removal on residents in the state.
Ohikhuare remarked: “Today is a good day, we are all excited that His Excellency, Godwin Obaseki has again directed us to deploy all our buses for free ride to the good people of Edo State to cushion the effects of the fuel subsidy removal; a transportation palliative to commuters in Edo State travelling within Benin metropolis and travelling from Benin City to major cities in the three senatorial districts of the state.
“We are aware that before now, ECTS has been offering free ride to school children, now it is not only school children but to all Edo people and it is our hope that we will enjoy this blessing and benefit that God has given to us this time through His Excellency.”
Ohikhuare stated that the government’s complimentary transportation services have commenced, while assuring residents that staff members of the agency are ready to ensure seamless accessibility and availability.
Expressing appreciation to Edo State Government for the laudable initiative, a commuter, Mr. John Obiakeme, commended the initiative for its timeliness, as it will help sort out transportation issues for many struggling households.
“I actually have a car but because of the fuel increment, I now use public transport service. So having this free bus service is very timely. In fact I think it is better than sharing rice and salt like it is being done in other states. This will go a long way than that. I really appreciate Governor Obaseki. I appreciate his efforts towards seeing how to alleviate poverty in Edo State.”
Recall that the Governor had earlier provided free bus services to commuters in the state during the Naira crunch crisis occasioned by the naira redesign policy, in the first quarter of the year, 2023.
The routes plied by the buses include:
Inter-city routes: Auchi–Igalla Ibillo–Ososo, Uzebba–Ikhin-Otuo, Abudu to Ubiaja, Abudu to Urhonigbe and Ewohimwin to Ewatto;
Intra-city routes: Ramat–Kingsquare, New Benin–Kingsquare, Kingsquare-Ekenwan Road, Kingsquare–Airport Road; Kingsquare–Sapele Road and Kingsquare–Adesuwa, Kingsquare–Ogida, New Benin–Upper Mission, Kingsquare–Ugbowo, Kingsquare–Agbor Road, Kingsquare–Eyean, Kingsquare–Upper Sokponba, New Benin – Ugbowo, New Benin–Aduwawa, amongst others.
