- Okpebholo said the initiative was part of the administration’s effort to entrench its policy direction.
- Later, the governor said the announcement regarding the approval of the free bus services should be disregarded.
The Edo State governor, Monday Okpebholo, has halted the free bus program for state residents.
The governor’s sudden reversal came just 24 hours after initially approving the initiative, citing it as part of his administration’s goal to establish a clear policy direction.
On Wednesday, Okpebholo approved a free transportation scheme for residents, utilizing the Edo City Transport Service.
Fred Itua, the governor’s spokesperson, explained that the service would cover Benin metropolis and the three senatorial districts, aiming to improve residents’ welfare.
However, Itua later issued a statement Wednesday night, declaring that the initial announcement regarding free bus services should be “disregarded.”
“The governor is being briefed on issues surrounding the operation of the state-owned Edo City Transport Service, operators of the free bus services,” the statement reads.
“For now, the free bus services have been placed on hold. A new decision by the Governor will be communicated to the general public.”