The Ebonyi State Government has inaugurated its free transportation system for workers and students across the state to cushion the effect of subsidy removal by the Federal government.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 100-seater buses procured by the state Governor, Francis Nwifuru, were to alleviate the sufferings of the residents in the state following the removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal government.
Stanley Mbam, the state's Commissioner for Works and Transport, said during the inauguration on Monday in Abakaliki that the buses, which were four in number, would go a long way in taking workers to their working places.
According to Mbam, the buses would convey workers and students from Abakaliki to the Permanent Site of the state University (EBSU), Ezzamgbo, Ohaukwu local government area of the state free of charge. Other routes include Abakaliki-Ikwo, Abakaliki to Centernary City, new government house, among others.
“Now, you can see today we have gathered to flag off free transportation system in the state with this four 100-Seater Buses to cushion the effect of removal of fuel subsidy. It is free,” he added.
Fred Nwaogbaga, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Transport, said the buses would be designated at different destinations for workers and students. Oshim Nkwegu, president of the Students' Union Government of Ebonyi State University, commended Governor Nwifuru on the initiative and his policies to reduce the suffering of the poor masses in the state.