On Wednesday evening, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo revoked his earlier-discussed permission of free bus services throughout the state.
The decision to halt the service was communicated later that same day, although it was first announced on Wednesday morning as part of the state’s welfare programs.
According to the first instruction, which was detailed in a news release by Fred Itua, the governor’s chief press secretary, the free bus service will run between cities in the three senatorial districts and within Benin City.
It was meant to demonstrate Okpebholo’s dedication to improving the well-being of Edo citizens.
However, a subsequent statement from Itua late Wednesday night called for the earlier announcement to be disregarded.
“The earlier statement announcing the approval of free bus services by the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, should be disregarded,” he said.
The CPS mentioned that the governor was being briefed on operational issues within the Edo City Transport Service, which manages the free bus initiative.
“For now, the free bus services have been placed on hold. A new decision by the governor will be communicated to the general public,” he said.
Residents are waiting for further information on the state’s transportation regulations as a result of the reversal, which has sparked concerns about the program’s operational and logistical difficulties.
Bernard Joman, the chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress’ Edo State chapter, had earlier praised the governor in an interview, claiming that the gesture would lessen the impact of the difficult economic climate on Edo commuters.
“It is a welcome development for the Edo Chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress and to the people of the state. It will help to cushion the harsh economic conditions on the people and workers.
“The higher institution students have resumed and they will all be going to various destinations in the state and the free transportation will surely help them.
“I will urge the governor of the state, Senator Monday Okpehbolo, to ensure that the scheme is enduring so that the people and workers will benefit for a long time.”
