Gov Okpebholo Makes U-turn, Halts Free Bus Services in Edo Hours After Approval

The Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo has announced the immediate suspension of the free bus service initiative earlier approved for operation across the three senatorial districts in the state.

In a statement by the state’s Chief Press Secretary, Fred Itua, on Wednesday, November 27, the Governor directed the public to disregard the previous announcement of the free bus service which was implemented earlier the same day.

Recall that Governor Okpebholo on Wednesday, announced the launch of a free bus service initiative through the Edo City Transport Service for citizens and residents of the state.

The initiative, announced via a press statement by Itua, was said to be part of the Okpebholo administration’s drive to entrench his policy direction.

According to Itua, the free bus service which will cover Benin metropolis and the three Senatorial Districts of the state (Intra and Intercity routes) was part of the governor’s commitment to enhance the welfare of all Edo people.

However, in a subsequent statement released on Wednesday, Itua explained that the suspension of the initiative became necessary after complaints regarding the operational issues of the Edo City Transport Service (ECTS) were brought before the governor.

The statement reads, “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 being briefed on issues surrounding the operation of the State-owned Edo City Transport Service (ECTS), operators of the free bus services.

The statement concluded: “For now, the free bus services have been placed on hold. A new decision by the governor will be communicated to the general public.”