The Ogun State government has started a statewide task force to check high transport fares and ensure fair practices in transportation.
The initiative, led by Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration, aims to reduce the financial burden of rising transportation costs due to fuel price increases.
The program, called Task Force Control of Transport Fares of Motorists and Unethical Practices by Filling Stations, was set up by the Ministry of Transportation last week to help Ogun residents. “Our goal is to ensure that they are not being overburdened by transportation costs,” said Commissioner for Transportation, Engr. Dairo Olugbenga.
He added, “We have engaged with union leaders, instructing them not to increase ticket prices under the guise of fuel price hikes.”
The task force includes representatives from the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services, and the National Union of Road Transport Workers, along with the Traffic Compliance and Enforcement Agency and the Ogun State Park and Management Committee.
Led by Engr. Adebola Onakoya, Director of Public Transport and Committee Services, the team has already checked major towns like Abeokuta, Sagamu, Ijebu Ode, and Ago-Iwoye. “We will continue monitoring to ensure that transport fares remain reasonable,” Onakoya said.
Commercial drivers support the state’s action. “The union has been considerate by not raising ticket prices, even though fuel costs have skyrocketed,” said Isa Hammed, a driver in Ijebu Ode. “We are managing the situation, but we appeal to the federal government to find a lasting solution to the high cost of fuel.”
While some passengers appreciate the efforts, others urge the government to improve road conditions across the state.
They hope the new task force will keep transport fares affordable without leaving residents to face the brunt of high fuel prices alone.
