The Lagos State government on Wednesday announced a 50 per cent cut in fares on all government-owned transportation systems.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu announced this at the Lagos House, Marina while addressing journalists on the fuel shortage and currency exchange crisis in the country.

”To further support Lagosians to weather these stormy days, I hereby announce a 50 per cent cut in fares on all our BRT buses, LAGRIDE taxi scheme, First Mile and Last Mile buses, and Lagos Ferry Services (LAGFERRY).

”This will take effect from tomorrow for the next seven days. We will push out more Cowrie Cards to enable more Lagosians to get on board our services,” Mr Sanwo-Olu said.

He said the currency exchange and the lingering fuel situation had, no doubt, raised the tension in the land but thanked Lagos residents for their patience and understanding in the face of hardship experienced in recent days.

Mr Sanwo-Olu said the government was in talks with the NNPC to cushion the effects of these measures that were announced at the federal level, but with telling effects on states.

”NNPCL demanded Ijegun Egba tank owners and operators unhindered access to the tank farms, where about 40 per cent of petroleum products come from.

”We have been able to do that by rearranging the timing of the work on the Buba Marwa Road, the dual carriageway that leads to the tank farms.

“The road is over 50 per cent completed. Now, you would have noticed some improvement in the supply of petroleum products.

”Also, we have given approval for 24-hour work at petrol stations around the state,” he said.

He noted that the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) currency exchange deadline had, in no doubt, caused some dislocation, and Lagos, being Nigeria’s business and financial engine room, was feeling the effects of the measure.

He commended the judiciary (Supreme Court) for the ruling on the currency exchange matter.

”I have directed that food banks be set up in various parts of the state, to cater to the vulnerable. We will distribute foodstuffs to various communities.

”I would like to thank our security agencies (the military, the Department of State Services, the Police, the Civil Defence and Neighbourhood Watch) for their service and diligence these days.

”I would also like to warn mischief makers who may see this as an opportunity to incite violence that this is not the way to go. I enjoin every law-abiding citizen to go about their lawful business without fear,” Mr Sanwo-Olu said. 

(NAN)