In response to the recent removal of fuel subsidy, Osun State has launched a new initiative aimed at alleviating the transportation challenges faced by civil servants, students, and residents.
The initiative involves the introduction of commuter buses that will operate along selected routes within the state.
During the official unveiling of the buses in Osogbo, Governor Ademola Adeleke, represented by Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi, emphasized the government’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare of its citizens.
READ ALSO: ‘See Finish’: Nigerians react as Osun governor snubs Ooni of Ife
More buses will still be added
The buses are scheduled to operate during peak commuting hours, from 6:45 am to 9 am for the morning shift and from 3 pm to 5 pm for the afternoon shift, Monday through Friday.
Commissioner for Transportation, Sesan Oyedele, assured residents of the state that additional buses will be introduced in the near future.
The bus will not be free
He also noted that passengers will be charged a nominal fee for the use of the buses to support their maintenance and operation.
The designated routes for the initial five buses in Osogbo include Dada Estate-Capital-Okefia-Olaiya, Stadium Roundabout-Ayetoro-Old Garage-Olaiya, Oja Oba-Isale-Osun-Odi Olowo-Olaiya, Owode Ede-Abere-Ogo Oluwa-Olaiya, and Okinni-LAMECO-Dele-Yes Sir-East Bye Pass.
This initiative is part of the state government’s ongoing efforts to mitigate the impact of the fuel subsidy removal and demonstrate its commitment to the well-being of its citizens.
READ ALSO: Timeless concert in Osun: Governor Adeleke grants permission
Government faces N1.68 Trillion fuel subsidy as marketers predict possible N900/Litre Price
Meanwhile, the Nigerian government is likely to spend a significant amount, approximately N1.68 trillion, to support the cost of petrol, known as Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), between September and December this year. This is based on information from oil dealers and experts in the field.
Currently, the petrol price at the pump should ideally be between N890 and N900 per litre due to the weakening value of the Nigerian currency against the US dollar and the rising global crude oil prices.
However, petrol is currently being sold at a lower price, between N598 and N617 per litre, raising suspicions that the government is subsidising it.
