By Olaitan Ibrahim
By Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has reversed his earlier decision to continue the free bus ride programme introduced by his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki, over a year ago.
In a statement issued Wednesday afternoon by his Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, the governor initially approved the continuation of the initiative, describing it as part of his administration’s efforts to improve the welfare of residents across the state’s three senatorial districts.
“The free bus service, covering Benin metropolis and intra- and inter-city routes across Edo State, is a demonstration of Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of all Edo people,” the earlier statement read.
It highlighted specific areas covered under the scheme, including routes in Edo Central, such as Ekpoma, Irrua, and Uromi, as well as locations in Edo North, like Auchi, Okpella, and Fugar.
However, in a subsequent statement released Wednesday evening, Itua announced the suspension of the scheme, citing the need for a review of its operations.
“The earlier statement announcing the approval of free bus services by the Executive Governor of Edo State, His Excellency Senator Monday Okpebholo, should be disregarded.
“The Governor is currently being briefed on the operations of the Edo City Transport Service (ECTS), which manages the free bus services. For now, the scheme has been placed on hold, and a new decision will be communicated to the public,” the statement concluded.
Residents are now awaiting further updates on the fate of the free transportation initiative.