Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s presidential candidate in Nigeria’s recent general election, expressed apprehension regarding President Bola Tinubu’s initiative to reduce inter-state travel costs by 50%.
Through a statement shared on X on Friday, Obi, known for his critiques of the present government, questioned the effectiveness and longevity of the proposed intervention.
“I’ve reviewed reports stating the President’s approval for a 50% reduction in the price of interstate transport fare for Nigerians traveling during this Yuletide, from December 21, 2023, to January 4, 2024,” Obi stated. “If fully realized, this initial intervention aimed at aiding the masses is undoubtedly a positive step.”
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Tinubu announced the initiative on Wednesday, as a part of the government’s interventions aimed at cushioning the effect of subsidy removal and rising inflation on the masses. The initiative, which covers 28 inter-state routes across the country, is expected to take effect from Thursday, December 21, 2023, until January 4, 2024.
“From tomorrow, Nigerians wishing to embark on inter-state travel to any part of the country from Abuja, Lagos, Kano, Kaduna, Enugu, Port Harcourt, Owerri, Ibadan, Akure, Maiduguri, Sokoto and other major inter-state transportation hubs will be able to do so at half the cost,” the government’s announcement said.
However, there are concerns that the move will end in showmanship like many other initiatives of the government aimed at mitigating economic hardship. Moreover, transport companies like GIG (God is Good) Motors, Chisco Transport, Young Shall Grow, God Bless Ezenwata, and Area Motor, enlisted, are yet to acknowledge they have such an agreement with the government.
This backdrop has prompted Obi to join other skeptical Nigerians in interrogating the initiative.
Sustainability Concerns and Post-Intervention Strategy
Obi raised fundamental concerns about the sustainability of such emergency measures once the festive season concludes saying, “While acknowledging the high transportation costs and associated hardships, we must address the crucial question: What happens after the festive season? Is there a durable policy to alleviate the masses’ enduring burden from high transportation costs beyond this temporary initiative?”
He emphasized the need for a comprehensive strategy beyond the short-term intervention, highlighting potential challenges that could persist once the initiative ends.
“The issue with these seasonal palliatives extends beyond the immediate relief they offer. Millions have already embarked on travels, enduring the burden of exorbitant costs. What measures are in place to compensate or refund these individuals?” Obi asked, drawing attention to the complexity of the situation.
Verification Efforts and Disappointing Results
To ascertain the initiative’s implementation status across various cities, Obi said he proactively sought confirmation but encountered disheartening results.
“I dispatched contacts to major parks in Abuja, Lagos, Onitsha, Kano, Aba, Kaduna, Owerri, Gombe, and others,” Obi explained. “Unfortunately, transporters at these parks seemed unaware of the purported 50% discount. Even the designated transport companies announced for participation and the 28 specified routes lack adequate oversight mechanisms to ensure compliance.”
Emphasizing Transparency and Genuine Benefit to Citizens
Expressing skepticism about the integrity of the initiative, Obi stressed the significance of deliberate and transparent arrangements between the government and transport companies, particularly when aiming to benefit the broader masses.
“While commendable, government compassion should not exploit weak structures or facilitate opaque policy implementation,” he asserted, advocating for a more transparent and accountable approach.
Appeal for Genuine Action and Compassion
Obi further underlined the hardships faced by Nigerians, urging the government to demonstrate genuine sensitivity and concern for citizens’ plight.
“The Nigerian people are enduring severe hardship, and it’s crucial that the government doesn’t overlook their suffering,” he emphasized. “I hope this initiative isn’t merely an attempt to gain media favor without substantial impact on the ground.”