Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminialayi Fubara has launched 17 brand new luxury buses for free transportation of residents as part of his administration’s plans to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal.
The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, unveiled the buses Tuesday in Port Harcourt, the state capital.
The vehicles were procured to convey commuters to some designated major routes within and outside the state capital in fulfilment of a promise the governor made to organised labour some weeks ago.
Fubara said his administration was aware of the challenges the residents were facing, following the removal of fuel subsidy.
He said: “Consequently, this scheme flagged off today is a deliberate intervention of Rivers State government to mitigate the effects of the economic challenges.
“We charge operators of these buses to be committed, dedicated and show due diligence in the operation and maintenance of these buses, same way we call on the public, the end users of this scheme, to conduct selves with decorum to ensure maximum benefit from the opportunity.
“For us, we owe you what is happening today because you voted us and gave us the mandate to lead your government. This is a gift from the government you elected. And many more gifts will come your way”.
The spokesman for organised labour, Emecheta Chuku, said he was surprised at the speed with which the governor fulfilled his promise.
He said: “What surprises me about this intervention is the urgency of it. When we met him (Fubara), he assured he was going to do it, but I had thought this was a project that would take the next six months to be accomplished.
“To show how committed and sensitive the governor is to the working class, he has made it possible in a very short time. In the multiplier effect of this project, Rivers people are going to use free buses, and drivers, conductors and maintenance crew will be employed. We will remain grateful to the governor”.
