Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has suspended his earlier decision approving free bus services for residents across the three senatorial districts.
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.
“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
Itua said the suspension was occasioned by a briefing received by the governor on the issues surrounding the operation of the state-owned Edo City Transport Service, ECTS, the operators of the free bus services.
According to the statement: “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.
“For now, the free bus services have been placed on hold. A new decision by the governor will be communicated to the general public.”
