Residents of the Benin metropolis have commended Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo for introducing free transport services to cushion the effect of fuel subsidy removal on the people in the state. 

The residents spoke in separate interviews on Wednesday in Benin.

Agnes Ogieator, a trader at Oba of Benin market, said providing free transport service was one of the best steps the governor had taken to cushion the effect of the hardship orchestrated by the new fuel regime.

“I used to spend nothing less than N5,000 on transport on a daily basis before the flagging off of the free transport service. 

“That is history now; thanks to Governor Godwin Obaseki for this initiative to reduce the hardship, as I have now channelled that N5,000 to other expenses,” Ms Ogieator said.

Gabriel Enalogholase, a media practitioner, said he appreciated the new development initiated by the governor.

According to him, not everyone can afford the recent hike in transportation costs.

“Obaseki has done well, as this will create an avenue for some persons to cut costs and save for better days,” he said. 

On her part, Joy Idemudia, a judiciary member, said that because of bad roads in the state and a hike in fuel prices, she had parked her vehicle and keyed into the free transport service provided by the state government.

“I conveniently board the free bus in front of my house at Ekewam Road on a daily basis straight to King’s Square, and thereafter join another one on the Aduwawa axis to my office without paying a dime,” she said.

Other beneficiaries also commended the state government for the initiative.

They mentioned that the removal of fuel subsidies by the federal government has alleviated the financial strain on Edo residents, particularly in terms of high transportation costs due to increased petrol prices.

(NAN)