From TONY JOHN, Port Harcourt
Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has rolled out 17 luxury buses for intrastate transportation to cushion the effects of astronomical fares faced by commuters in the state.
Unveiling the buses in Port Harcourt on Tuesday, the governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, said buses would convey commuters on designated major routes in the state capital and beyond.
Fubara disclosed that the subsidy intervention luxury buses were a fulfillment of a promise he made to organised labour recently.
The governor said his administration was aware of the challenges faced by Rivers residents as a result of the removal of fuel subsidy.
He said: “Consequently, this scheme flagged off today, is a deliberate intervention of Rivers government to mitigate effects of the economic challenges.
“We charge operators of these buses to be committed, dedicated and show due diligence in the operation and maintenance of these buses; same way we call on the public, end users of this scheme to conduct selves in decorum to ensure maximum benefit from the opportunity.
“For us (government), we owe you what is happening today because you voted us and gave us the mandate to lead your government. This is a gift from the government you elected. And many more gifts will come your way.”
Speaking on behalf of the organised labour, Emecheta Chuku said, “What surprises me about this intervention is the urgency of it. When we met him (Fubara), he assured he was going to do it. But, I had thought this was a project that would take the next six months to be accomplished.
“To show how committed and sensitive the governor is to the working class, he has made it possible in a very short time. In the multiplier effect of this project, Rivers people are going to use free bus; drivers, conductors and maintenance crew will be employed. We will remain grateful to the governor.”
Ends.
Rivers State Deputy Governor, Prof. Ngozi Odu, cutting the tape at the unveiling of 17 buses in Port Harcourt, on Tuesday.