The Edo state government has announced a number of routes both inside and outside the Benin metropolis for the authorized free transport service for passengers by the state-owned Edo City Transport Ltd (ECTS) to mitigate the impact of the fuel subsidy removal scheduled to take effect on Monday, September 11, 2023, from 6.30 am to 7 pm daily.
Andrew Okungbowa, the Chief Press Secretary to the Edo State Governor, emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of its citizens. He assured the public of the government’s continuous efforts to mitigate the impact of these challenging times. The two-month-long initiative is designed to offer free transportation within Benin City and between Benin City and other major cities in the three senatorial districts.
The inter-city routes that have been announced include Auchi–Igarra–Ibillo–Ososo; Uzebba–Ikhin–Otuo; and Abudu–Ubiaja. Additional routes include those from Abudu to Urhonigbe and Ewohirin to Ewatto. Within the city, the designated routes are Ramat–Kingsquare; New Benin–Kingsquare; Kingsquare–Ekenwan Road; Kingsquare–Airport Road; Kingsquare–Sapele Road; and Kingsquare–Adesuwa.
The intra-city routes that have been earmarked are Kingsquare–Ogida; New Benin – Upper Mission; Kingsquare–Ugbowo; Kingsquare–Agbor Road; Kingsquare–Upper Sokponba; New Benin–Ugbowo; and New Benin–Aduwawa.
Okungbowa expressed optimism that this transportation aid, facilitated by Governor Godwin Obaseki, will significantly ease mobility issues, thereby enhancing the well-being of the citizens during this period characterized by the removal of fuel subsidies. As the government continues its pursuit to acquire new gas-powered buses, this service aims to fill the transportation void and ensure seamless commuting for the residents of Edo State.
