The Ekiti State Government and the leaders of transport unions on Thursday, December 3, 2020, agreed to reduce cost of intra and inter-state transportation in the state with a view to making life more bearable for the people.
This resolution followed four days of negotiation parley between government representatives and leaders of transport unions, shortly after Governor Kayode Fayemi declared war against hike in the prices of goods and services in the State.
Fayemi commended the leaders of the transport unions for acceding to public outcry, promising to support the unions with loans and offer auto spare parts for affordable cost.
The Governor, represented by his chief of staff, Biodun Omoleye, reiterated the commitment of his government towards alleviating poverty and making life abundant for the people.
He assured that his administration would continue to dialogue and negotiate with other critical stakeholders to ensure that there is downward review of prices of commodities and services in the State.
He said: “This is the beauty of dialogue. We started this meeting with commercial transport associations in Ekiti State with the understanding to bring down transport fare in Ekiti State. We appreciate the good gesture from the transporters.
“You can be assured that government will do everything within its power to assist and support your unions.
“The Commissioner for Commerce is listening and all our development agencies are also being advised to bring succour to the transport unions.
“Please be assured that your request for support in procuring buses for mass transit is being looked into. We have also promised that essential spare parts would also be made available for your members.”
Speaking on behalf of the transport unions, the Ekiti State chapter of the Road Transport Employer’s Association of Nigerian, RTEAN, Olanbiwonninu Rotimi announced that members of the union had agreed that some of the prices would be reverted to the old prices while some would be reviewed downwards.
“Transport fare from Ado Ekiti to Akure, according to him will now revert to N900 as against the current price of N1, 500 while that of Ado to Lagos was reverted to the old price of N2, 500 as against N3, 500.
“Commuters from Ado to Ibadan would now pay N1500 as against N2, 500, while the price of Ado to Onitsha was reduced from N5200 to N3500.Ado to towns like Ikole, Omuo, Oye, Ido, Ise, Emure, Ikere.”
